The time of the patient’s bath or back massage is the most logical time to thoroughly observe the patient’s skin for pressure areas.

At the first sign of redness, the area should be washed with soap and water and rubbed with lotion; measures should then be taken to keep the patient off the reddened area.

Report any signs of pressure to the charge nurse.

Keep sheets under the patient clean, smooth, and tight to help eliminate skin irritation.

Ensure adequate nutrition and fluid intake, according to physician’s orders.

Every effort should be made to keep urine and feces off the patient’s skin, washing the skin with soap and water and keeping the buttocks and genital area dry (lotion or powder may be used depending upon the patient’s skin type) when the patient is incontinent.

Obese patients may need assistance washing and drying areas under skin folds (groin, buttocks, under breasts, and so forth.)

For the patient with very dry skin, various bath oils may be added to the bath water.

• Soap may be omitted because of its drying effect.
• Lotions and oils may be used after the bath.