A patient’s bath may be given at any time, according to the patient’s needs, but certain routines are generally followed on a ward.

Morning Care.

The procedure followed in the morning affects the patient’s comfort throughout the day.

Each morning before breakfast, the patient should be assisted to the bathroom, or a bedpan or urinal should be provided, according to the patient’s activity level.

The patient is then given the opportunity to wash his/her hands and face and brush his/her teeth. The bed linen is straightened, and the overbed table is cleaned in preparation for the breakfast tray.

After breakfast, the patient has a complete bath (type is dependent upon the patient’s condition and mobility), mouth care, a change of clothing, and a back massage.

Bed linens are changed; and the unit is cleaned and straightened to provide a comfortable and safe environment for the patient.

Evening Care.

The care the patient receives at the end of the day greatly influences the patient’s level of relaxation and ability to sleep.

An opportunity is provided for elimination; the patient’s hands and face are washed; the teeth are brushed; a back rub is given.

Bed linens are straightened; the patient’s unit is straightened to ensure comfort and safety. It is important that there are no items, which the patient could slip on, or fall over, such as chairs or linens, on the floor.