Today is our topic of discussion Soak or Local Bath.
Soak or Local Bath
Soak or Local Bath
A Soak refers to either immersing a body part (e.g. an arm) in a solution or to wrapping a part in gauze dressing and then saturating the dressing with a solution.Soak may employ wither “Clean technique” or sterile technique. A sterile technique is indicated for any open wounds present on the area.
Purpose of Soaks
- To apply heat to hasten suppuration
- To apply medication
- To cleanse the wound
- To relieve edema
- To relieve muscle spasm To increase circulation.
General Instructions
- The body part to receive the moist heap application is submerged in a basin of warm water at 105 to 110°F (40.5 to 43°C) The duration of the treatment is usually 20 minutes
- Ideally the temperature of the solution should be checked frequently and additional solution added or the solution is replaced in order to maintain the appropriate temperature
- The patient should be in a comfortable position and the limbs are supported with pillows
- Dry the surface thoroughly at the end of the treatment.
Preliminary Assessment
- The doctors order for any specific precautions
- General condition and diagnosis of the patient Assess any contraindication of hot application
- Self-care ability to follow instructions
- Articles available in the unit.
Preparation of Tile Patient and Environment
- Explain the procedure to the patient
- Provide privacy if needed
- Close the window and put off the fan
- Arrange the articles at the bed side
- Position the patient comfortably according to the need of the procedure.
Equipment
- Bathtub
- Solution, e.g. normal saline, magnesium sulfate and sterile water
- Mackintosh
- Extra towel
- Piece of woolen blanket
- Lotion thermometer.
Read more: