Shaving the Client Performance Checklist

Shaving the Client

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.

Prepare supplies:

• Electric shaver or safety razor
• Basin
• Washcloth
• Towel
• Paper towel
• Shaving cream
• Soap or lotion
• Tissue
• Gloves

Prepare Client

• Raise bed to comfortable height, lower side rail nearest you. Raise the head of the bed.
• Place a towel over the client’s chest. Put on gloves.

If using a blade shaver:

• Tighten the razor blade to the shaver.
• Wash the person’s face. Do not dry.
• Wet a washcloth or face towel with warm water. Wring it out.
• Apply the washcloth or towel to the face for a few minutes.
• Apply shaving cream; one side at a time with your hands or use as having brush to apply lather.
• Hold the skin taut with one hand.
• Shave in the direction of hair growth.
• Use shorter strokes around the chin and lips.
• Rinse the razor often. Shake off excess water and lather.
• Apply direct pressure to any bleeding area.
• Wash off remaining shaving cream or soap.
• Dry with a towel.
• Apply aftershave or other product if person prefers.
• Hand hygiene.

If using an electric shaver:

• Put on gloves.
• Make sure the face is dry.
• Hold skin taut with one hand.
• Turn on razor.
• Place the razor over the hair growth.
• Move the razor back (single head) and forth or in a circular pattern (2 or more heads).
• Apply direct pressure to any bleeding area.
• Apply aftershave or other product if person prefers.

For legs and underarms :

• Shave using longer strokes against the direction of hair growth.

Final Steps

• Apply aftershave lotion or a product of the client’s preference. Discard disposable razor into sharps container. Remove the towel and gloves.
• Perform hand hygiene. Provide for safety and comfort. Tidy area.