Bed Bath

• Sponge baths are also known as bed baths, as they are generally performed while the patient is lying in bed. First, add soap and water to a small basin and test the water's temperature. Let the patient test the water as well, as his skin is much more sensitive than yours. Help the patient undress and cover all exposed parts with blankets and warm towels. For example, when washing the upper portion of the body, leave the lower parts covered in the bed's blankets. Only expose the area to be washed. When washing the left arm, leave the stomach, chest and right arm covered in towels. This preserves the patient's dignity, as he is not lying naked and vulnerable.
  
  Once the patient has tested the water and been undressed and covered, soak a rag in the water and soap and begin gently washing the patient's skin, one area at a time. It is helpful to have a partner with you. She could be washing other areas at the same time, cutting the bath time by half. When washing, gently rub the exposed area, cleaning but not rubbing to redness. Make sure to wash under any folds in the patient's skin. This is a great time to check for bedsores and any other skin rashes or injuries. Once the area has been cleaned, pat the area dry with a towel. Make sure that all previously wet areas, especially those under skin folds, are completely dry before moving on to the next area. Leaving even a damp area can make the patient cold. Leaving an area under a skin fold damp is a quick way to induce skin rashes and bedsores.
  
  Once the area is completely dry, cover it and move on to the next portion. Do not try to wash more than one area at a time by yourself. When administering a bath, it is best to start with the face and work your way down. This will help ensure you do not forget any areas to be washed. Wash the patient while she is lying on her back. Once all front areas have been completed, help the patient roll onto her stomach and then complete the process a second time, washing the other side now.