Assessment of Bed Bathing Methods in the Faroe Islands

Abstract

There are two types of bed baths: the traditional basin used with soap and water, and the disposable bath, which is pre-packed in single-use units and heated before use. From earlier studies it was recommended with further studies witch would strengthen the evidence. To compare the traditional basin bed bath to a disposable bed bath, there are three factors that need to bed considered: (1) duration and quality of the bath, (2) patient satisfaction and (3) nurse satisfaction.31 patients received bed baths on two consecutive days. The patients were bathed by the same nurse on both days. The bed baths were observed in relation to duration and quality. Nurses and patients were interviewed about their preferences. The study was performed in both surgical and medical floors. Both types of bed baths scored very highly in the area of quality. Significantly less time was used with the disposable bed baths (p< 0.001). The registered nurses prefer the disposable bath (78%). The patients were satisfied with both types of bed baths. There was no significant difference in the results. Even when we adapt the results in relation to the patients’ gender and age, there is still no significant difference. Patients rated the bed baths equally in most cases. By this study we applied further research in the area of personal hygiene. When all aspects of bed baths are considered (time, cost, quality, and patient and nurse preferences), both types of bed baths are secure and well received. Due to the times savings achieved and the importance of this for patients (who are weak and need nursing assistance to perform personal hygiene), we recommend the use of disposable bed baths.