Morning and Evening Care

Morning and evening care are essential components of basic nursing care that contribute significantly to a patient’s comfort, hygiene, dignity, and well-being. Although a patient’s bath or personal care may be provided at any time according to individual needs, most hospital wards follow established routines for morning and evening care. These routines help maintain cleanliness, promote comfort, support recovery, and create a safe and organised environment.

Nurses play a vital role in ensuring that these care activities are performed systematically, respectfully, and in accordance with the patient’s physical condition and preferences.

Morning and Evening Care

Morning Care

Morning care sets the tone for the patient’s comfort and well-being throughout the day. Properly performed morning care helps the patient feel refreshed, relaxed, and prepared for daily activities and treatments.

General Principles of Morning Care

• Morning care is usually provided before and after breakfast, depending on the patient’s condition.
• The level of assistance required depends on the patient’s mobility, strength, and medical condition.
• Privacy, comfort, and patient independence should always be respected.

Procedure of Morning Care

• Each morning, before breakfast, the patient should be assisted to the bathroom, or provided with a bedpan or urinal, according to their level of activity.
• The patient should be given the opportunity to wash hands and face, brush teeth, and perform basic grooming.
• The bed linen is straightened, and the over-bed table is cleaned in preparation for the breakfast tray.

After breakfast:

• The patient is given a complete bath, the type of which depends on their condition and mobility (bed bath, partial bath, or assisted bath).
• Oral care is provided to maintain hygiene and prevent infection.
• Clean clothing or hospital garments are provided.
• A back massage may be given to promote comfort, circulation, and relaxation.
• Bed linen is changed, and the patient’s unit is cleaned and arranged to ensure a safe, comfortable, and pleasant environment.

Morning care also provides an opportunity for nurses to observe the patient’s physical and emotional condition, skin integrity, mobility, and response to treatment.

Evening Care

Evening care is designed to help the patient relax, feel comfortable, and prepare for restful sleep. The care given at the end of the day has a direct influence on the patient’s ability to rest and recover.

General Principles of Evening Care

• Evening care is usually provided before bedtime.
• The environment should be calm, quiet, and well organised.
• The patient’s comfort and safety should be prioritised.

Procedure of Evening Care

• The patient is provided with an opportunity for elimination by assisting to the bathroom or providing a bedpan or urinal.
• Hands and face are washed, and oral hygiene is performed, including brushing teeth or cleaning dentures.
• A back rub or gentle massage may be given to promote relaxation and improve circulation.
• The patient is assisted into comfortable nightwear if required.
• Bed linen is straightened, and the patient is positioned comfortably for sleep.
• The patient’s unit is tidied, ensuring that:
  • Floors are clear of obstacles
  • No loose linens or objects are present that may cause slipping or falls
  • Essential items (call bell, water, spectacles) are within easy reach

Proper evening care helps reduce anxiety, improves sleep quality, and contributes to overall patient satisfaction.

Nursing Considerations

• Encourage maximum independence while providing assistance when needed.
• Maintain privacy and dignity at all times.
• Observe and report any abnormalities, such as skin breakdown, pain, or changes in condition.
• Adapt care routines to meet individual patient needs and preferences.
• Use morning and evening care as opportunities for therapeutic communication and patient education.

Morning and evening care are fundamental nursing activities that support patient hygiene, comfort, safety, and emotional well-being. When performed thoughtfully and consistently, these routines enhance recovery, promote restful sleep, and contribute to a positive healthcare experience.

For nurses, effective morning and evening care reflect not only technical skill but also compassion, attentiveness, and respect for the patient as a whole person.