Health Information

Maklumat Kesihatan

Interactive Patient Guide

Panduan Pesakit Interaktif

Skills for Life - Homecare
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Having a good, clean body not only promotes one's well being but also preserves one' dignity. This is especially true for one who is unfortunately bedridden or wheelchair bound, and is dependent on others to render his personal hygiene.

 

Maintaining a clean body

  • Assist him in cleaning the mouth
  • Assist him in washing the face
  • Assist him in a shower
  • Bathe him in bed (if totally dependent)
  • Wash his hair (two to three times a week if totally dependent)

 

Cleaning the mouth

Nothing feels better than having a fresh, clean mouth. Keeping the mouth, teeth and gums clean not only promotes health but also improves appetite. It is also important to clean the teeth regularly to remove plaque and debris as these cause tooth decay and bad breath.

If the person is unconscious or unco-operative, you can clean the mouth with a piece of wet cloth or lemon glycerine sticks (available at pharmacy).

use soft toothbrush, prop up at least 45 degree

 

Washing the face


A face wash in the morning, after meals and before retiring to bed will help refresh oneself.
While washing the face, please pay attention to the following:

  • Eyes
  • Nose
  • Lips
  • Ears

It is good to observe any abnormality in or around these regions and seek medical attention to prevent deterioration of condition.

Note: Eye and eyelid infections may occur if these are not cleaned properly. Use moist cotton swabs to clean the eyes & lids, using a sweeping motion from inner to outer corner of each eye.

 

Showering


As long as the person you are caring for is able, he should be encouraged to attend to his hygiene needs. You, as the carer, can assist him in whatever ways possible to make it a pleasant experience.

 

Tips

  • It is safer for the person to sit whilst showering
  • Use a standard shower chair
  • Place toiletries, towel, and clothing within reach
  • Use non-slip mat to prevent accidental slipping and falls
  • Encourage the person to pass motion before showering
  • Encourage the person to help himself as much as possible
  • Provide him with washing aids, e.g. long-handle brush, if necessary

Assist him to focus his attention in cleaning the following areas:

  • Neck
  • Behind the ears
  • Armpits
  • Groins
  • Genitalia
  • Feet
  • Any skin folds (especially if he is overweight)
You may be required to help him scrub his back and wash his feet as these areas may be too difficult for him to reach and clean.

 



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