Bathing

The occupational therapist with the North Shore Palliative Program will recommend what equipment you might need to help with bathing. Tub baths and even showers usually get progressively more difficult, but while they are possible, buying or renting equipment, such as grab bars to help patients move in and out of the bathtub or shower stall, will make these activities safer. A bath chair may help people who cannot lower themselves into the bath or stand long enough for a shower. If the patient is able to get into a bath, the water should not be too warm, or it may make the person sleepy and weak, making exiting the tub difficult. Use soap sparingly as it tends to be drying on skin. A wet, warm washcloth is usually all that’s necessary to clean the face.

Sponge baths can be given to someone who is not able to get out of bed. You’ll need a washcloth or sponge, lightly soaped water in a bowl or bucket, and a towel. Start at the face and work downwards, being careful to cover parts of the body that are not being washed with a light sheet or towel. Then progress to the arm and side of the body furthest from you before moving to the arm and side closest to you. Follow the same pattern for the lower half of the body. Finish washing the patient’s front by washing the genital and anal areas, being sure to change the water and cloth afterwards. If the patient is able to turn, support them with pillows, or another person, and wash the back. A full bath is not necessary every day, but the face, underarms, hands, genital area and back should be washed daily.

People who are not eating and drinking very much will likely have dry skin. Lotions are often very soothing on skin.  Avoid alcohol-based products, as they are drying. Heavily scented lotions and creams can sometimes be annoying to patients and should also be avoided.