Helping someone to wash: Information for carers

Here are some simple steps to support someone who is unwell to use the bath or shower.

Encourage them to do as much as they can for themselves, and let them take their time.

You could also:

  • check the bathroom is warm
  • check the bath or shower water is at a comfortable temperature
  • make sure they have everything they need: towels, clean clothes, toiletries, flannels, shaving supplies, and disposable wipes and pads if they use them
  • put a non-slip mat on the bottom of the bath or shower to help stop them from falling
  • stay within hearing distance in case they need you
Bathing or showering with a syringe driver

If someone has a syringe driver in place ( a small pump that gives medicines directly to them in a tube) they can have a shower or bath. But the syringe driver is not waterproof, so they will need to take care to keep it dry - they could put it in a plastic bag on a stool next to the bath or shower cubicle. Try and keep the clear dressing clean and dry but a nurse can also change it when needed.

Please see also:

Giving someone a bed bath

Moving someone in and out of bed

Recommended Resources

Marie Curie - Helping someone to wash

Published 24th November 2022

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