Today is our topic of discussion Sitz Bath.
Sitz Bath
Sitz Bath
Sitz-bath or hip bath is defined as a bath which is taken in a sitting position (Fig. 17.8). The patient is usually immersed from the midthighs to the hips.Sitz-bath is bathing the perineal area in a sitting position. In this, the buttocks thighs and lower trunk also are immersed in water.
Purpose
- To relieve pelvic congestion
- To treat dysmenorrhea
- To relieve pain, after operation, affecting the perinea area
- To promote drainage of rectal abscess and hemorrhoids.
- To relieve pain following cystoscopy.
General Instructions
- When the patient takes sitz-bath care has to be taken to
- prevent chills, burns and fainting
- The temperature of the solution or water should be 110 to 115°F or 43 to 46°C
- The temperature of the water should be checked in between and additional hot water is added as necessary
- The duration of bath is 15 to 20 minutes
- Sterile solution, in sterile containers is used for sitz-bath.
- It will reduce the transmission of microorganisms.
- Solutions Used for Sitz-Bath
- Potassium permanganate 1:5000 Boric acid 1 g to 1 pint
- Eusol solution.
- Sitz-bath is Contraindicated During
- Pregnancy
- Menstruation
- Renal inflammation
- Increased irritability of the genital organs.
Preliminary Assessment
- Check
- Right (correct) patient
- The doctors order for specific instructions
- General condition and diagnosis of the patient
- Type, duration, and medication used for procedure
- Self-care ability to follow instructions
- Articles available in the unit.
Preparation of the Patient and Environment
- Explain the procedure to the patient
- Provide privacy if needed
- Arrange the articles at the bedside
- Put off the fan and close the windows
- Check the temperature of the water with lotion thermometer
- Position the patient comfortably.
Equipment
- Basin or bathtub
- Bath blanket and safety pins
- Bath towel
- Lotion thermometer
- Mackintosh
- Rubber rings.
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