Bathing

Showering a quadriplegic can be a difficult task.  Normally the Hoyer lift will be used to transfer the patient into a shower chair, or gurney. To be efficiently ready to shower your patient, have all towels and washing supplies ready in the shower before hand.  The patient should be undressed completely while in bed, then transferred.  Be sure to cover the patient decently to protect their dignity as you take them into the shower.

Once the patient is in the shower be sure to lock all wheels on the shower chair to prevent injury.  While using separate wash cloths for the perineal area, be aware of any red irritated spots.  Anything out of the norm should be reported to the nurse immediately.

It is extremely important to dry the patient completely.  Any area left wet is more susceptible to bacteria, which can lead to decubitis sores.

The patient can usually be dressed while in the shower room.  This makes the transfer via Hoyer lift, back into bed, or wheelchair much easier.