1. The nurse is providing a complete bed bath to a patient using a commercialbath 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/cleansersolution 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 washingtechnique 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 tractinfection. Cleansing from rectum to pubic area or back to

front increases therisk 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.