Safety.

The bed may be in the high position during the patient’s bed bath, but should be placed in the low position upon completion.

The side rails should be up after the patient’s bath for the patient who is confined to the bed.

Side rails help to prevent falls for the elderly patient or the patient who is confused or has a decreased level of consciousness.

The legal aspect requires diligence on the part of nursing personnel.

The patient’s call light should be within easy reach to prevent the need to reach for it and risk falling out of bed and to provide easy access in case of pain or distress.

Fire safety in the patient care area calls for the following rules:

• No smoking in bed.
• No smoking if oxygen is in use.

Always wash your hands before entering and upon leaving the patient’s room.

Privacy.

Respect for the patient’s privacy decreases the patient’s emotional discomfort during personal care.

Keep the door to the patient’s room closed.

Pull the curtains around the unit and drape the patient’s body during care.

Allow the patient to complete as much personal care as possible; self-care is appropriate and provides additional privacy.

Comfort.

Ensure a comfortable temperature in the patient’s room.

Close any windows and the door to the patient’s room to prevent drafts and chilling.

Drape the patient appropriately during the bath.

For a bedside bath, maintain bath water between 110oF and 115oF; change the water as it cools and/or gets soapy.