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 non-medicated 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.