Bathing Trouble

[FutureCota]

Today, I made my first attempt at bathing a resident and I quite frankly, choked.

It wasn't at all like the videos on youtube and I kept getting water everywhere. The patient was a non-responsive one so I was already nervous and she closed her legs so I couldn't get to her peri area. The worst was dressing her again. I am a guy and I had no idea how to turn her panties or her bra on and since she was non responsive and sitting there, I had trouble figuring out how to put her clothes on.

Actually, the worst was me elbowing her head by accident and I still feel terrible for that.

My instructor says that I will learn by doing, but I have only two tries left and I don't know how I can practice/make sure I do better.

Does anyone have a step by step guide? My book is very vague. I have to know how to put on clothes for a non responsive person and the book is no help either.

I feel stupid and I'm nervous about my theory instructor pulling me aside after class.

[oops I bradyed again]

Don't feel stupid! It takes practice to get good at giving showers and baths without soaking yourself in the process. After a while you will get a routine down, but even then you may have to tweak it for certain residents. Is your instructor or a CNA available to assist you next time you give a shower? It might be helpful to receive some tips and feedback while you're actually showering someone. I don't know of any step by step guides, but honestly the best way to learn and feel more comfortable is to just keep gaining experience.

[caliotter3]

It also might help to observe and/or assist an experienced CNA while they bathe someone. See if you can arrange the extra practice with your instructor.

[FutureCota]

I can email my clinical instructor. I think she implied that I would have some practice before I try to test out again. (I am nervous since I need to get all my test outs done by 8/4/17 and I only go to clinical once a week)

I would appreciate a step by step guide from someone. I just need to be instructed on every little thing. I'm the sort of person whose mind is built differently. I don't get "common sense" things unless they're explained to me. That's why I saw Occupational and Physical Therapists as a kid.

[caliotter3]

Check out these videos I found on an internet search: type in "American Red Cross CNA training videos" and you will get videos for each skill. Watch these several times. Write down the steps on a paper as you watch them. I am certain these will help.

[caliotter3]

When I typed in "list of skills test for CNA skills test" the first link was this, it gives a numbered step by step guide to the CNA skills: http://www.prometric.com/en-us/client/Nurseaide/Documents/NAClinicalSkillsChecklist.pdf Do not know how up to date this document is. Actually, you should have been given something like this from your class. (Just tested this link, it did not work. You can get to the document by clicking on the link that comes up on the search)

[Paws2people]

https://www.prometric.com/en-us/clients/nurseaide/documents/NAClinicalSkillsChecklist.pdf

Try this one. Practice on a friend several times, print out the checklist so your friend can grade you afterward to see what you missed/did right.

[maggie0, BSN, RN]

Oh, man I have no advice, just sympathy! I remember giving my first bath alone--the poor resident and I were both terrified.

And during my second bath, I had just gotten the resident out--still sitting in the hoyer-- when the fire alarm went off! I had no freaking idea what to do.

It *does* get easier.

[FutureCota]

The link doesn't work, but I was shown a checklist in the back of the book. I will look for the red cross video as soon as I get home.

Edit: I see the second link works. :)

[Wastelander86]

Don't stress yourself if your nervous about completing the skill you will forget steps just take your time and focus!!! I recently completed clinicals I'm 6 months pregnant and it was hell.....but I did it and am now a licensed cna... Remember to ask if your client can do things like stand while using a grab bar don't assume they are completely dependent.... Remember to check the temp of the water and have them check wash the hair first keep a towel around the shoulders while washing their hair remember to bring washcloths for the peri area

Just try to remain calm and remember your training....i did horrible at clinicals but still made it you got this!!!!!! Good luck

[FutureCota]

I've been practicing on my brother. I think I'm doing better.... I should also try practicing on myself since I kept forgetting the steps.

[Good_day]

Practice makes perfect with all skills!!! Keep at it and your confidence will improve each time- I promise. (As a nurse I've learned not to promise much!) I used to practice "inserting" a Foley catheter in a huge stuffed bear at home over & over until I didn't feel like a nervous wreck. If anyone was peeking in the windows it must've been quite a sight.

My first solo bath was a disaster (and that was without anyone there to make me nervous!) Spilled water, couldn't figure out the gown snaps, the sheet WOULD not fit the bed, a BM as I was drying him. Ugh, felt like a doooooofus. But here's the thing- we all feel that way. Your heart & good intentions are what will matter in the long run, after you've got those skills mastered that worry you now. YOU GOT THIS! Repeat that to yourself. Go get 'em (and breathe & smile)