NCHCFA

B... is for Bathrooms and Bathing

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If bathing and toileting are going to have safe positive outcomes, they must be pleasant experiences. As unlikely as it might seem to laypersons, a great deal of fear can surround both of these activities. Residents may fear water suddenly coming from above onto their head and eyes, falling or injury from being maneuvered within small spaces and perhaps most of all, the potential humiliation from lack of control of one's own privacy.

Caregivers need positive outcomes, too. Although there is empathy for the residents' fears, the frustration of resistance to tasks that must be accomplished in the activities of daily living, creates an understandable tension due to the risk of bodily injury for the caregiver.

Creating environments that reduce, if not eliminate, unpleasant factors is invaluable in terms of the benefits to both residents and employees i.e., increased resident and employee satisfaction, improved care and compliance outcomes, and reduced injuries.

While the concepts for bathrooms and bathing rooms vary based on function, creating any of these environments focuses heavily on the correct use of color, lighting and décor. Of course, Life Safety Code requirements are always step one.