Perineal Care Basics Flashcards

Perineal Care Overview

• Perineal (peri-care) care involves cleaning the external genitalia and rectal area to maintain hygiene.

When to Perform Peri-Care

• Perform peri-care during AM and PM routines.
• It should also be conducted during showers or baths.
• Required after episodes of incontinence or diarrhea.
• Ideally, residents should perform it themselves when able.

Importance of Peri-Care

• Offers comfort and hygiene for incontinent individuals.
• Removes microorganisms and helps eliminate odors.
• Prevents skin irritation and reduces the risk of infections.

Key Techniques for Peri-Care

• Always wipe from front to back after bowel movements and during peri-care to prevent infection.

Procedure Steps for Peri-Care

• Step One: Gather necessary supplies including gloves, toilet paper, bed protectors, washcloth, and cleaning solutions.
• Step Two: Adjust the bed to a comfortable working height.
• Step Three: Place a waterproof bed protector under the resident.
• Step Four: Maintain privacy while exposing only the perineum; cover the resident with a bath blanket.
• Step Five: Put on disposable gloves for protection.

Cleaning the Male Perineum

• Step Seven: Clean the penis, scrotum, and rectal area, starting from the urethral opening downwards.
• For uncircumcised males, retract the foreskin gently for cleaning and then replace it.
• Dry the genital area gently after washing.

Cleaning the Female Perineum

• Step Eight: Clean the pubic area, outer urethral and vaginal openings, labia, and rectal area.
• Use peri-solution or soap, ensuring to clean from front to back and changing the washcloth area with each wipe to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Final Steps in Peri-Care

• Step Nine: Wash and rinse the perineal area thoroughly, drying it with a blotting technique.
• Step Ten: Turn the resident to their side for rectal area cleaning without contaminating the perineal area.
• Step Eleven: Observe for any signs of irritation, unusual odors, or discharge, and report findings.
• Step Twelve: Remove any pads or protectors and place a dry pad underneath the resident.
• Step Thirteen: Cover the resident with a top sheet and remove the bath blanket.
• Step Fourteen: Lower the bed to a safe height for the resident's comfort.
• Step Fifteen: Dispose of soiled linens properly.
• Step Sixteen: Clean and store the basin according to facility policies.
• Step Seventeen: Safely remove and dispose of gloves to avoid contamination.
• Step Eighteen: Ensure the call light is within the resident's reach for assistance.
• Step Nineteen: Conclude the procedure by washing hands thoroughly.