Title: Administer soaks and sitz baths.
Course: Medication Aide (14051-18) > Section: Examining Administration of Prepared Instillations and Treatments

Administration should include

- knowledge of the purpose of soaks and sitz baths to relieve pain, to cleanse, and to speed healing
- following the procedure for assisting with soaks:
  - Provide for client privacy and explain the procedure
  - Verify the medication order for accuracy with the MAR and read the label three times o wash hands
  - Put on gloves
  - Prepare the soaking solution and check the water temperature with a thermometer or on your wrist; the water temperature should be between 105º and 110º Fahrenheit; have the client check the water temperature and adjust if necessary
  - If adding a pharmaceutical solution, follow the instructions on the solution label
  - Immerse the body part in the solution; pad the edge of the basin with a towel if needed
  - Check the water temperature every 5 minutes and add hot water as needed to maintain the temperature
  - Check the reaction of the body part being soaked at least every five minutes and remove if the skin reddens or if the client complains of pain or numbness
  - Soak for the prescribed time; usually no more than 20 minutes
  - Remove the body part and dry thoroughly with a clean towel—this is particularly important when soaking the feet of a diabetic patient
  - Dispose of the soaking solution according to facility policy
  - Document the procedure according to facility guidelines

- following the procedure for assisting with sitz baths:
  - Provide for client privacy and explain the procedure.
  - Verify the medication order for accuracy with the MAR and read the label three times.
  - Wash your hands.
  - Put on gloves.
  - Prepare the soaking solution and check the water temperature with a thermometer or on your wrist; the water temperature should be between 105º and 110º Fahrenheit; have the client check the water temperature and adjust if necessary.
  - If adding a pharmaceutical solution, follow the instructions on the solution label.
  - Position the client comfortably in the bath; stay with the client if the client is frail or cognitively impaired.
  - Have the client remain in the bath for the prescribed period of time; usually no more than 20 minutes.
  - Help the client from the bath, dry the skin or provide a towel and assist with dressing.
  - Dispose of the bath water.
  - Document the procedure according to facility guidelines.

Note: The client may have a disposable sitz bath which fits on the toilet seat. These are usually attached to a rubber bag containing warm water. If so, follow the instructions for use on the disposable product label.