Why should the nursing assistant wipe from front to back when giving perineal care?
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) have an extensive set of skills. Providing perineal care is one of those skills that all CNAs must know, as it is essential to keeping a patient in good health. Those working with the elderly or with individuals who are disabled often must
provide perineal care. Show
What Is Perineal Care?Perineal care, also known as peri-care, involves cleaning the private areas of a patient. This practice is common in bedridden patients and those with incontinence. Since the perineal region is prone to infection, patients with these conditions must receive peri-care daily. Where Is the Perineal Region?The perineal region is located between the tailbone and the pubic arch. It is a diamond-shaped area between the anus and scrotum in males, and between the anus and vulva in females. The Basics of Providing Perineal CarePerineal care is needed for patients who urinate on the bed or require a bedpan. After urination, CNAs clean the patient’s perineal region to keep them comfortable and avoid infection. This practice is a common task for CNAs working in home care and may be performed while bathing a patient. Remember that perineal care also means checking for signs of infections in the region every time you clean. Infections can appear as swelling, lesions, rashes, sores, or boils. If you notice any sign of infection, promptly call your supervisor. Below are step-by-step instructions for providing perineal care:
For Female PatientsFor female patients, separate the labia and then use downward strokes to clean the region. Use a new washcloth for each downward stroke, or a clean area of the same washcloth. For Male PatientsFor male patients, retract the foreskin (if necessary) and then use a washcloth in a circular motion from the top to the bottom of the penis, making sure to clean the testicles as well. Infections and Conditions of Perineal Region To Look ForThere are many infections and conditions CNAs must keep an eye out for when providing perineal care to patients. Symptoms can vary, but generally include pain, discomfort, changes in urination frequency or color, rash, swelling, or discharge. Below are a few of the more common infections and conditions:
Safety TipsIn order to negate the risk of infection, CNAs should adhere to the following safety recommendations when providing perineal care:
When assisting with perineal care the NA should wipe front to back?Cleanse the perineum, using front to back motions. Use a fresh washcloth for each pass from front to back. 6. Never wash back to front; this causes contamination and can cause infections.
When cleaning the perineal area the nursing assistant should?Using a washcloth and warm water, gently clean the skin of the perineal area moving from front to back. Do not move from back to front due to the risk of introducing germs from the anal area into the urethra, a primary source of urinary tract infeaction.
When performing perineal care what is important for the nursing assistant to remember?Always be gentle, as this area of the body is sensitive. Occasionally bed linens will become soiled during perineal care. If so, remove them and launder them along with the washcloth. A waterproof pad placed under the buttocks, meanwhile, can be a moisture barrier between your loved one and the bed linens.
When assisting a man with perineal care you should always?When providing perineal care for men, use a washcloth with soap, hold the penis in one hand, and gently wash it from the meatus to the base of the penis; rinse and dry. If the client is uncircumcised, gently retract the foreskin and wash in the same way. Wash the scrotum; rinse and dry.
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