Higiene del encamado

Hygiene Procedures for Bedridden Patients

Definition and Importance of Hygiene

• Hygiene is defined as the set of activities performed by an individual to keep their skin, hair, teeth, nails, etc., clean.

• Bedside hygiene is primarily conducted for patients with reduced mobility due to severe conditions or medical contraindications. This care enhances patient safety and helps prevent infections while promoting well-being and self-esteem.

Preparation for Patient Care

• Maintain room temperature between 22°C and 24°C; ensure water temperature is appropriate and avoid drafts. Prepare all necessary equipment before starting the hygiene process. Respect patient privacy throughout the procedure.

• Use suitable soaps that are gentle on the skin, follow a systematic order during washing (soaping, rinsing, drying), and encourage patient participation to foster independence while providing opportunities for skin massage and hydration.

Materials Required

• Essential materials include liquid soap or soapy sponge, warm water, moisturizer, cologne (if desired), large towels (2) and a small towel (1), bed linens (fitted sheet/underpad), disposable gloves, and any necessary clothing items like diapers or nightgowns. Ensure the room meets temperature and privacy standards before beginning care.

Step-by-Step Hygiene Process

• Begin with handwashing followed by donning disposable gloves; explain the procedure to the patient while seeking their cooperation. Remove bedding without fully undressing the patient—only expose areas being cleaned at any time. Start cleaning from head to toe in a supine position: eyes first using no soap from inner to outer corners; then proceed with face and ears without soap as well.

Detailed Cleaning Steps

• Apply soap on a sponge for cleaning neck, shoulders, arms, chest, abdomen, axillae while paying special attention to feet and interdigital spaces; cover cleaned areas with a dry towel afterward before moving on to legs and feet facing towards you. Clean genital area from front to back ensuring cleanliness in folds such as inguinal regions while covering exposed areas again after each step for modesty purposes. Change water frequently during this process if needed.

Finalizing Patient Care

• After completing body cleansing including back side (nape of neck down through glutes), apply lotion or moisturizer especially focusing on pressure points like heels which are prone to sores; finish making the bed neatly around them ensuring comfort post-care along with placing pillows correctly under their head before applying additional moisturizing cream where necessary on legs or other high-pressure areas ensuring overall comfort of the patient post-procedure completion.