24 Tub Baths and Showers Performance Checklist

Assisting with Tub Baths and Showers

• Check care plan for direction and client needs.
• Perform hand hygiene.
• Assess the client’s status before undertaking the activity.
• Explain the procedure to the client. Provide for privacy. Do not leave client alone during procedure.
• Follow agency policy to ensure tub/shower is clean before and after use and the floors are dry before client enters the area.
• Check equipment for safety prior to using.
• Place rubber bathmat in tub if available.
• Obtain additional assistance if needed.
• Wash hands and apply gloves.
• Assist client with transfer to tub or shower as directed by care plan.
• Adjust water temperature to a comfortable setting – no more than 40.5C. Direct water away from client while adjusting temperature. Allow client to check water temperature when possible.
• Direct water spray toward the client during the shower.
• Place items in client’s reach if able to wash him/herself or wash client in order as bed bath.
• Place a damp washcloth over client’s eyes and shampoo the client’s hair.
• Drain tub, assist client to dry, cover client with a large bath towel or bath blanket. Assist out of tub/shower.
• Assist client with deodorant and other products according to client preference. Apply nonmedicated lotions, creams, and ointments as directed by the care plan. Assist client to dress. Dry and style hair.
• Perform hand hygiene. Provide for safety and comfort. Tidy area.
• Report and record actions and observations according to agency policy.