1. The nurse is providing a complete bed bath to a patient using a commercial

bath cleansing pack (bag bath). What should the nurse do?

a. Rinse thoroughly.

b. Allow the skin to air-dry.

c. Do not use a bath towel.

d. Dry the skin with a towel.

ANS: B

The nurse should allow the skin to air-dry for 30 seconds. Drying the skin

with a towel removes the emollient that is left behind after the water/cleanser

solution evaporates. It is permissible to lightly cover the patient with a bath

blanket or towel to prevent chilling. Do not rinse when using a bag bath.

2. A nurse is providing perineal care to a female patient. Which washing

technique will the nurse use?

a. Back to front

In a circular motion

b. From pubic area to rectum

c. Upward from rectum to pubic area

ANS: C

Cleansing from pubic area to rectum (front to back) reduces the transfer of

microorganisms to the urinary meatus and decreases the risk of urinary tract

infection. Cleansing from rectum to pubic area or back to front increases the

risk of urinary tract infection. Circular motions are used in male perineal

care.

3. The nurse is providing perineal care to an uncircumcised male patient.

Which action will the nurse take?

a. Leave the foreskin alone because there is little chance of infection.

b. Retract the foreskin for cleansing and allow it to return on its own.

c. Retract the foreskin and return it to its natural position when done.

d. Leave the foreskin retracted.