Hair and Nail Care, Shampooing, and Shaving Techniques

Hair Care

• Overview: Hair is typically washed at beauty salons or by the CNA in home health or hospital settings.

  • Resident's Responsibility: Residents can hold a washcloth over their eyes and tip their head back to prevent water from getting into their eyes.

Washing Hair in Different Settings

• In the Shower:

  • Begin by spraying the resident’s hair with water.

  • After the hair is completely wet, set the shower head aside.

  • Apply shampoo and massage it into the scalp.

  • Check water temperature before rinsing with the shower head.

  • After rinsing, dry the resident's face with a towel.

• In the Tub:

  • Use a cup or pitcher to wet the hair, ensuring to also avoid getting water in their eyes.

  • Same process: Apply shampoo, massage, and rinse using the cup or shower head attachment.

• ** For Bed Bath**:

  • Line the head of the bed with incontinence pads and place a trough on top.

  • Wet hair using a cup or pitcher, then follow the same shampoo and rinse procedure as before.

Hair Styling After Washing

• After shampooing, dry and comb the hair.

• Residents may choose to style their hair or set it with rollers.

• Heated rollers can be used for styling.

• Residences may visit beauty shops once a week for additional services.

Alopecia

• Definition: Alopecia is the loss of body hair, typically from the scalp, which can be distressing for individuals.

  • Causes:

  • Autoimmune disorders

  • Psychological disorders (e.g., trichotillomania)

  • Cancer medications

• Residents may wear wigs, and staff may assist in placing and styling them.

Medicinal Shampoos

• Some residents may require medicinal shampoos, which can be over-the-counter and should align with their care plan.

  • Rinseless Shampoo: Used for residents unable to tolerate showers or tub baths.

  • Typically involves a heated cap for cleansing and should be followed by combing and styling.

Nail Care

• Timing: Nail care is usually performed during bath time but may be done when nails appear dirty or rough.

Nail Care Procedure

• Wash and soak the resident's hands in a washbasin or with a wet, soapy cloth to soften the nails.

• Use an orange stick to clean underneath the nails.

• Fingernail Trimming Caution: Do not trim nails of diabetic residents; refer this task to a nurse.

Finishing Nail Care

• Use a nail file to smooth rough edges, filing only in one direction.

Foot Care

• Overview: Foot care is performed on bath day but can be a soothing activity anytime.

Foot Care Steps

• Soak the resident's feet if necessary.

• Wash, rinse, and dry their feet, then trim and file the toenails.

• Lotion Application: Apply lotion but avoid rubbing between the toes.

• Skin Check: Important to inspect for pressure injuries, cracks, rashes, or sores, especially in diabetes-affected residents.

When to Report Issues

• Report any irregularities such as:

  • Cracks or bleeding nails

  • Bruises or trauma

  • Skin problems between toes

  • Pressure areas or broken skin

  • rashes

  • nails that are too thick to cut

Shaving

• Methodology: Shaving may be a daily necessity; residents can prefer electric razors or disposables.

• If the resident is taking a blood thinner make sure to use an electric razor to reduce the risk of cuts and bleeding.

Shaving Techniques

• Ensure the razor is clean before use.

  • For electric razors make sure to take screen off and look inside

  • clean any dead skin cells that may be trapped, as this ensures a smoother shave and helps prevent irritation.

• Apply shaving cream if using a disposable razor.

• Shave in the direction of hair growth to avoid nicks

  • for both electric razors and traditional razors

• Post-shave: Wipe off excess cream and check for bleeding nicks, applying pressure as needed.

Additional Considerations

• Women with facial hair can also be shaved using the same method, and assistance may be needed for beard care for male residents.

• Beards should be kept clean and groomed regularly.