What Should the Nurse Do?
1
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A nurse is assessing a patient with oily hair and noticeable debris on their face and arms. The nurse also notices that the patient’s gown is soiled. The nurse asks the patient when they last showered and if the patient would like to shower that morning or afternoon. The patient refuses to perform hygiene practices. What should the nurse do?
2
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A 58-year-old patient has recently been admitted to the medical-surgical unit. The patient appears uncomfortable when the nurse asked if the patient would like to have a bath that day. What should the nurse do?
You are a home health nurse visiting a new patient. The patient is an 80-year-old male with diabetes who has impaired mobility after a stroke. The patient ambulates with a walker and was able to greet you at their door. The patient lives alone as his wife died last year. Upon entering the home, you notice clutter in various areas: a table covered in books, newspapers, dishes, and pictures; couches and chairs have clothing and miscellaneous medical equipment on them; and there are cords spread across walkways. The patient makes space for you to sit at the kitchen table and tells you it is ok to push anything aside that is in your way. While establishing rapport, you notice the patient has various body odors; soiled clothing; dry, flaky skin; and food particles visible in his teeth.
3
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How would you address the patient’s hygiene habits?
4
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How would you address the clutter in the patient’s home?
5
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What would you educate the patient about regarding hygiene?
6
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How would you respond if the patient tells you he prefers baths?
7
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You are ready to develop a plan of care for this patient. What are three hygiene goals you can make?