Partial Bed Bath with Back Rub – Key Steps & Techniques

Flashcards covering the essential steps, order of cleaning, and safety measures for performing a partial bed bath with a back rub.

What is the first action when beginning a partial bed bath with a back rub?

Sit the patient up while supporting their back and untie the gown.

Why is a privacy towel placed after the gown is removed?

To protect the patient’s privacy while you wash.

How do you wipe the patient’s eyes during the face portion of the bath?

From the inner to the outer corner of each eye, twice per side.

Which facial areas are wiped twice on each side after the eyes?

The forehead, cheek, nose, and chin.

List the torso areas cleaned in order during the body wash.

Neck behind the ears, under the chin, across the neck, upper abdomen, under the breasts, stomach, up the side.

When washing the patient’s arm and hand, what must you do?

Support the arm underneath and clean both the front and back of the arm and hand.

What area of the body is washed last during the body portion of the bath?

The armpits.

Describe the stroke pattern used to wash the patient’s back.

Wipe from neck to shoulder to waist on the right, middle, and left sections.

How do you prepare for the back rub?

Ask the patient’s permission and warm the lotion in your hands.

What technique is used for the back rub?

Massage in circular motions up and down three times, then pat dry.

What must be done with the gown after the bath is complete?

Tie and secure the gown in the back, ensuring it and the blanket have no wrinkles.

Name two key safety or comfort measures during a partial bed bath.

Raise the bed to working level and keep the bed linens dry.

What should you always do before turning the patient onto their side?

Inform the patient that you are about to turn them.