Perineal Care

Perineal care cleanses the genitalia and surrounding area, preventing urinary tract infections and skin breakdown.

16 steps·5 evaluator checkpoints·5 common mistakes

1Step-by-Step Procedure

1
Gather equipment: basin with warm water, washcloths, towel, gloves, waterproof pad (Chux).
2
Wash hands and put on gloves.
3
Identify the resident and explain the procedure.
4
Provide maximum privacy: close door, draw curtain.
5
Lower the head of the bed to a flat or slightly elevated position.
6
Place a waterproof pad (Chux) under the resident's buttocks.
7
Expose only the perineal area; drape the legs and abdomen.
8
For female residents: separate the labia and wash from front to back (pubic area to rectum) using a clean area of the washcloth for each stroke. Never wash from back to front.
9
For male residents: if uncircumcised, gently retract the foreskin; cleanse the tip of the penis in a circular outward motion; replace the foreskin. Wash the shaft from tip to base. Wash and dry the scrotum.
10
Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.
11
Pat dry the entire perineal area; do not rub.
12
Remove the waterproof pad.
13
Reposition the resident for comfort and re-drape.
14
Remove gloves and wash hands.
15
Lower the bed; ensure the call light is within reach.
16
Document care and any observations of skin condition, discharge, or odor.

⚠
Washing back to front in female residents — this introduces fecal bacteria to the urinary area.
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Using the same washcloth surface for multiple strokes without using a clean section.
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Not replacing the foreskin in uncircumcised male residents — paraphimosis risk.
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Rubbing rather than patting dry — rubbing irritates delicate skin.
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Not placing a waterproof pad under the resident before beginning.

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For female residents: front to back, always. Every stroke uses a clean surface.
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For male residents: do not forget to replace the foreskin.
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Pat dry — gentle patting, not rubbing.
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Privacy is paramount: keep the resident covered as much as possible.

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