5.3.2 General Guidelines for Assisting with Bathing

When supporting bathing for any client, be sure to follow the following general guidelines:

• Always identify the client prior to providing cares.
• Tell the client how the bathing process will proceed and familiarize them with the environment and products, if needed.
• Ask the client what they prefer in matters of bathing products, clothing choices, water temperature, etc.
• Provide privacy while setting up for care and during care, specifically whenever skin is showing on the body beyond the neck, face, and arms.
• Make every effort to maintain safety of the client and yourself at all times.
• Gather all supplies before you begin, to prevent needing to collect them during bathing.
• Wash hands prior to providing care and after providing care and if soiling occurs during the bath.
• Wear gloves to provide care if soiling may occur during the process.
• Allow the client to complete cares they are able to, to encourage independence.
• Use a separate washcloth for the perineal area.
• Ensure that bathing occurs at least 1-2 times weekly for each client.
• Follow policies and protocol of your facility.
• Use good body mechanics.
• Observe the client’s skin for signs of redness, breakdown, discoloration, irregularities.