Many of nursing home residents are distressed during bathing. The resident may feel embarrassed, cold, uncomfortable, in pain, or feel they have no privacy. Ninety percent of residents require some assistance with bathing. The experience should be made pleasurable. It is important to know the person, have good communication, a flexible schedule and a variety of techniques. There are no regulations dictating a resident must have a shower or a tub bath or the number of times per week. Ombudsmen often assist residents having unpleasant bathing experiences. Many residents may respond better if the experience is referred to as a “wash off” as opposed to a bath or shower. The appearance of the room or soothing music may make a difference, also. If the resident is in pain, pain medication given prior to the bath may increase comfort.
Shower chairs may be uncomfortable and cold. The seat may be padded with washcloths, towels or a child potty seat insert. The bars may be padded with pipe insulation or foam. It is important to keep the resident warm and covered. The room should also be kept warm. Communication by staff with each step helps to ease anxiety and conversation is a good distracter. Consistent staff assignments may aide in building trust. The staff and the resident should pick the best time for the bath. No rinse soap may also be used to decrease dry skin or ease those with a fear of water. Adding color to the water, turning the jets off or offering a bubble bath may help, as well.
Hair washing is unpleasant for many. It is best performed at the end of the shower or bath. Pouring water over the head may make the resident feel as if he or she is drowning. Hair may be washed in a basin with a drainage tube, deflecting water from the face, or in the beauty shop, where the resident may stay warmer. Hair should be washed when it looks dirty. People produce fewer oils with age. A shampoo cap that uses a no rinse shampoo is also another option.
For more information on this topic or becoming an Ombudsman Volunteer please contact the Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments Area Agency on Aging located at 802 West Main, Duncan, OK 73534. Please contact Dacia Nix at 580-736-7975 or Kim Rhodes at 580-736-7974. They will be happy to assist you with any questions that you might have.
