How to Bathe a Paralyzed Person

Keeping up on personal hygiene has a tremendous affect on a person's well being, not just physical but emotional, too. A person who is paralyzed may need help with cleaning themselves. Cleaning the skin regularly will help prevent infections, even if a patient is bedridden. Without a well-kept and clean appearance, a person's sense of self-esteem and independence can suffer. Helping them to look their best can go far in helping them feel better.

Things You'll Need

• Basin or container to hold bath water
• Lightweight blanket
• Wash cloth and bath towel
• Soap
• Powder
• Deodorant

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Instructions

• 1

  Place person in the bathtub if possible. If you can safely lift her, a real bath is preferable over a bed bath. Don't leave her side and hold her in a sitting position if necessary. Let her do as much of the cleansing as possible, especially if she has use of her upper body. A hand-held showerhead or wet washcloth will help the process.

• 2

  Bathe the person in their bed at least once a day. Use a warm cloth and run it over his entire body. Dip it in the basin of fresh water often and wring it out. Make sure you monitor the water temperature so it isn't above 120 degrees. When bathed, apply powder, lotion and deodorant.

• 3

  Consult an in-home nurse. She can give you guidance in this kind of care and show you how to do everything properly. Have her demonstrate techniques once or twice and watch you perform them.