5.10 Skills Checklist: Full Bed Bath
- Gather Supplies: Basin, warm water, soap, shampoo and conditioner if used, lotion, six washcloths, two towels, barrier, gloves, clean clothes or gown, and linen bag or hamper
- Routine Pre-Procedure Steps:
- Knock on the client’s door.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Introduce yourself and identify the resident.
- Maintain respectful, courteous, and professional communication at all times.
- Provide for privacy.
- Explain the procedure to the client.
- Procedure Steps:
- Fill the basin with warm water and place it on a flat surface with a barrier underneath. Have the resident check the water temperature by placing their hand in the basin or putting a wet washcloth on the back of their hand.
- Place a towel under one leg, keeping the rest of the body covered with the bath blanket.
- Wash the leg with soap, only exposing the leg.
- Wash the feet with soap.
- Rinse the leg and feet.
- Pat the leg and feet dry.
- Repeat on the other leg.
- Raise the side rail on one side of the bed.
- Move to the opposite side of the bed and assist the resident to roll on their side using a lift sheet or other supportive device.
- Wash the back while keeping the rest of the body covered.
- Rinse the back.
- Pat the back dry.
- Dispose of the gown and used linens into the linen bag or laundry hamper.
- Ask the resident if they would like lotion. If applying lotion, wear gloves.
- Perform perineal care using clean linens according to Chapters 5.18 & 5.19 “Perineal Care Skills Checklists.”
- Assist the resident to put on a clean gown or clothes and apply an incontinence product if needed.
- While wearing gloves, empty the equipment.
- Rinse the equipment.
- Dry the basin.
- Return the equipment to storage.
- Dispose of soiled linen in the designated laundry hamper.
- Remove the gloves, turning them inside out.
- Post-Procedure Steps:
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Check for resident comfort and if anything else is needed.
- Be sure the bed is low and locked. Check the brakes.
- Place the call light or signaling device within reach of the resident.
- Open the door and privacy curtain.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Document and report any skin issues or changes noted with the resident.
Note: Shampooing can be done before washing face, after washing back, or after perineal care per resident preference. See “Shampoo Skills Checklist” for specific steps.
View a YouTube video[1] of an instructor demonstrating a full bed bath:
- Chippewa Valley Technical College. (2022, December 3). Full Bed Bath . [Video]. YouTube. Video licensed under CC BY 4.0. https://youtu.be/j5GYMOvjjtk ↵