bath

bath (bath)

1. a medium, e.g., water, vapor, sand, or mud, with which the body is washed or in which the body is wholly or partially immersed for therapeutic or cleansing purposes; application of such a medium to the body.

2. the equipment or apparatus in which a body or object may be immersed.

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colloid bath  one containing gelatin, starch, bran, or similar substances.

contrast bath  alternate immersion of a body part in hot and cold water.

emollient bath  one in an emollient liquid, e.g., a decoction of bran.

half bath  a bath of the hips and lower part of the body.

hip bath  sitz b.

sitz bath  immersion of only the hips and buttocks.

sponge bath  one in which the body is not immersed but is rubbed with a wet cloth or sponge.

whirlpool bath  one in which the water is kept in constant motion by mechanical means.

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bath (bth)

n. pl. baths (bz, bths)

1. The act of soaking or cleansing the body or any of its parts, as in water.

2. The apparatus used in giving a bath.

3. The fluid used to maintain the metabolic activities of an organism.

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bath

Etymology: AS, baeth

(in the hospital) a cleansing procedure performed by or for patients, as needed for hygienic or therapeutic purposes, to help prevent infection, preserve the unbroken condition of the skin, stimulate circulation, promote oxygen intake, maintain muscle tone and joint mobility, and provide comfort.

method The bath may be a bed or tub bath, a shower, or a partial bath, depending on the patient's condition and preference and the room temperature. The bath period may be used to instruct the patient on hygienic measures, range of motion exercises, and general measures to promote skin health. Observations are made of the general cleanliness and odor of the patient's body; the color, dryness, turgor, and elasticity and integrity of the skin; and the condition of the hair, hands, joints, feet, fingernails, and toenails. Any discoloration, abrasion, rash, discharge, perineal or rectal irritation, clubbing of the digits, hair loss, or evidence of lice infestation is carefully noted. Mild soap and warm water are used for the bath, and a lanolin-based lotion may be used for an after-bath massage. The patient's hair is combed daily and shampooed as needed; fingernails and toenails are cleaned and trimmed whenever required. The diabetic client may require specialized care of the nails.

interventions The nurse gives the bed bath in a setting that provides privacy for the patient. Firm, gentle strokes are used to wash, dry, and massage the person; vigorous rubbing is avoided. The partial bath is given with the patient seated in or on the side of the bed or in a chair. Self-help is encouraged, and the procedure is completed as quickly as possible to prevent chilling. In preparation for a tub bath, the nurse checks the safety strips in the bottom of the tub and the water temperature and assists the patient into the tub. Precautions are taken to prevent chilling, and on completion of the bath the nurse may help the patient out of the tub. In preparation for a shower, the nurse explains the operation of the dials regulating water temperature and provides a bath mat.

outcome criteria A bath provides an opportunity to assess external signs of disease, effects of therapy, and signs of pressure ulcer development and supports the patient's sense of well-being and self-esteem.

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bath

1. a medium, e.g. water, vapor, sand or mud, with which the body is washed or in which the body is wholly or partially immersed for therapeutic or cleansing purposes; application of such a medium to the body.

2. the equipment or apparatus in which a body or object may be immersed.

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colloid bath

a bath prepared by adding soothing agents, such as gelatin, starch, bran or similar substances, to the bath water, for the purpose of relieving skin irritation and pruritus. The patient is dried by patting rather than rubbing the skin. Care must be taken to avoid chilling.

contrast bath

alternate immersion of a part in hot water and cold water.

cool bath

one in water from 60 to 75°F (15 to 24°C).

emollient bath

a bath in a soothing and softening liquid, used in various skin disorders.

fish bath treatment

a separate tank prepared for this purpose is best. Is most effective as a means of treating skin conditions. There is insufficient absorption of most drugs from aquarium water.

hot bath

one in water from 98 to 112°F (36 to 44°C).

bath oil

a dispersible surfactant oil used in the treatment of dry skin disease, particularly seborrhea sicca.

tepid bath

one in water 85 to 92°F (30 to 33°C).

warm bath

one in water 90 to 104°F (32 to 40°C).

whirlpool bath

one in which the water is kept in constant motion by mechanical means. It has a gentle massaging action that promotes relaxation and is used in the treatment of skin diseases.