Different Types of Baths

Here is a quick review for the different types of baths that may be ordered for your clients:

Bed Bath

• Encourage the client to assist with the bath as much as possible.  
• Gather all your supplies ahead of time and have them within reach of the bed.
• Close any doors or windows to avoid drafts.
• To ensure both warmth and privacy, cover the client with a light cotton blanket.  Uncover, wash and dry only a small part of the body at a time.

Sponge or Partial Bath

• A full bath may not be ordered for each of your clients every day.  However, a person’s face, underarms, buttocks and genital area should be washed daily.  
• Follow each client’s care plan for a partial bath.  For example, Mrs. Smith may be allowed to stand at the sink for her sponge bath, but Mr. Taylor needs to sit on the edge of his bed.

Tub Bath

• Never give a tub bath unless it is ordered in the client’s care plan.  Tub baths have a high risk for client falls, burns, and chills.
• Encourage clients to use the toilet before a bath since warm water may trigger the need to urinate.
• Don’t attempt to help a client in or out of a tub unless you feel secure about your ability and/or you have the proper equipment (like a lift or    slide board).
• Tub baths can dry the skin, so they shouldn’t last longer than 20 minutes.

Shower

• Never give a shower unless it is ordered in the client’s care plan.  Use a shower chair if ordered.
• Be sure to place a rubber mat on the shower floor—but don’t cover the drain opening.

Sitz Bath

• Remember that a sitz bath is meant for soaking the hips and buttocks only.  It is often used with clients who have had surgery in the rectal area or who have bladder, prostate, or vaginal infections.
• Some clients may become dizzy after sitting in hot water.  When the sitz bath is over, help them stand up and make sure they are steady before they attempt to walk.
• Pat your client’s hips and buttocks dry with a soft towel.