Purpose:
To aid with guest’s hygiene requirements for those unable to use conventional methods, ensuring optimal levels of hygiene, comfort and dignity.
Procedure
- Following admission, a moving and handling risk assessment will be carried out for each guest, this will ensure that any risks to the guest or staff are kept to a minimum.
- The shower trolley is generally used for guests who are unable to use the Carendo or other style of shower chair. This may be due to severe spasm or limb contractures. This should be recorded on the moving and handling risk assessment.
- The shower room should be warm with the windows closed and draught free before taking the guest in.
- Having discussed the procedure with the guest all items required for showering should be taken to the shower room prior to the guest.
- Guest must be transferred in a wheelchair to the shower room.
- Prior to starting the shower staff members must wear a disposable apron and gloves.
- Guest should be adequately covered to ensure dignity and privacy at all times.
- Using the appropriate sling the guest can be transferred using the tracking hoist onto the shower trolley. The brakes should then be applied to the trolley.
- The shower trolley can be adjusted to the correct height for staff and the guest made as comfortable as possible.
- The water temperature should be checked using the appropriate thermometer and guest’s preference should be considered. Water temperature should be no more than 40 degrees centigrade.
- All wipes used should be disposed of immediately into the yellow bin.
- The guest must be dried as much as possible in the bathroom prior to being taken back to the bedroom for dressing.
- The shower room must be left clean and tidy. The trolley should be thoroughly cleaned following use with disinfectant wipes.
Posted in Nursing and Care