Personal Care and Support – Bath: Therapeutic– Oatmeal or BranSECTION: 18.07

Strength of Evidence Level: 3__RN__LPN/LVN__HHA

PURPOSE:

To relieve itching associated with certain skin conditions such as urticaria or eczema.To promote comfort of skin irritation and to create an antibacterial and drying effect. To soften and lubricate skin.

CONSIDERATIONS:

1.Need physician orders to perform an oatmeal or bran therapeutic bath.

2.Special instructions will be given by the nurse.

3.Precautions should be taken to prevent the patient from becoming chilled.

4.Strict cleanliness must be maintained to prevent infection.

5.Have patient void prior to procedure.

6.Use precaution and safety to prevent slipping when using any bath additive.

7.It is easier for the patient to get out of an empty tub.

8.Observe skin condition.

EQUIPMENT:

Porous oatmeal bag or bran bag (issued by pharmacy)

Non-skid mat

Towel

Gloves

Cleaning materials, as needed

Bath thermometer, if available

PROCEDURE:

  1. Adhere to Standard Precautions.
  2. Explain procedure to patient.
  3. Review and follow nurse's instruction.
  4. Clean tub. Make sure that the tub is well rinsed after cleaning.
  5. Place non-skid mat in tub.
  6. Fill the tub halfway (approximately 30 gallons) with warm water check the water temperature. Water temperature should be 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Place the ordered amount of powder in tub, making sure it is well dissolved.
  8. Assist patient to the bathroom and have the patient test the water to their comfort level.
  9. Transfer patient into the tub, using proper body mechanics.
  10. With unbreakable cup, pour water from the tub over all affected skin areas. Make sure all areas are moistened thoroughly with the solution.
  11. Allow for privacy and safety.
  12. Allow the patient to soak 10 to 20 minutes so that the skin is coated, but chilling is prevented. Check on the patient every 5 minutes.
  13. Empty the tub. Place towel across shoulders to prevent chilling while tub is emptying.
  14. Place towel on seat surface.
  15. Transfer from tub to chair or toilet seat.
  16. Pat the skin dry with a soft towel, DO NOT rub.
  17. Assist patient to dress and make comfortable.
  18. Assist patient out of the bathroom.
  19. Clean tub and straighten bathroom.
  20. Discard soiled supplies in appropriate containers.

AFTER CARE:

1.Document in patient's record:

a.Type of bath.

b.Duration.

c.Condition of skin prior to bath.

d.Condition of skin upon completion of bath.

e.Patient's response to procedure.

2. Report any changes in patient's condition to supervisor.

REFERENCES:

Zucker, E. (2000).Being a homemaker, home health aide.(5th ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ: 07458: Prentice Hall Health.