2.1 Shampooing Hair in Bed
 

 

        The patient confined to bed will require a cleansing shampoo at least every two weeks. With the approval of the medical officer, plan the shampoo for a time when the patient feels rested and has no conflicting treatments or appointments. If the patient can be moved to a stretcher, do so and take him to a convenient sink. If this is not possible, do the shampoo in bed.
1. Following is a list of equipment necessary for the procedure.

a. Large pitcher of warm water.
b. Bucket.
c. Newspaper.
d. Large rubber sheet.
e. Bath towels (3).
f. Washcloth.
g. Shampoo solution.
h. Clean comb and brush.

a. Place a newspaper on the chair and the bucket on the newspaper. Place the pitcher of water, shampoo, comb, brush, and one of the two bath towels on the bedside cabinet.
b. Move the patient to the near side of the bed. Lower the bed to a level position.
c. Pull the pillow down under the patient’s shoulders to assisting extending the neck. Fold one bath towel around the neck.
d. Place the narrow side of the rubber sheet under his head and over the edge of the pillow. Roll the sides of the sheet to improvise a trough, and place the free end in the bucket.
e. Give the patient a washcloth for his eyes and face.
f. Check provisions for water drainage before pouring any water.
g. Wet his hair and apply shampoo. Lather and rinse it.
h. Reapply shampoo and rinse the hair again repeatedly until his hair is “squeaky clean.” (A woman will require more rinse water than a man, but otherwise the procedure is unchanged.)
i. Slip a dry towel under the patient’s bed. Then roll and remove the rubber sheet. Pull the pillow up into its normal place.
j. Dry the hair by gently rubbing it with a clean towel.
k. Remove the equipment and wipe up any water spilled on the floor.
l. Assist the patient to comb and brush his hair with a clean comb and brush.