Hair Care

Nursing Students General Students

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I feel more comfortable posting in the student forum, since I am a nursing student. Y'all probably have the answer to my question.

My patient for tomorrow is a teenaged African-American female, and of course I plan on helping her with her hygiene if she needs it. Tomorrow will be her seventh day in the hospital. She may or may not have any personal toiletry items. One note in her chart says that her hair is "disheveled".

I know that her hair is different from mine, because it is more fragile, but that is all I know. What is good basic hair care for African-American patients?

Sandy--I'm at TWU and I like it, even though this semester is kicking my butt. We have some really good and caring instructors, good clinical opportunities, and we're learning a lot.

It turns out that I didn't get to use the ideas y'all gave me. My patient was up and in the bath very quickly and didn't want to wash her hair. But I will be able to use all of your suggestions later on. This was my first African-American patient, but you know she won't be my last and I need to know how to help any patient with their morning care. Thanks to all...

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Also keep in mind that African-Americans have a variety of hair textures. From almost straight to extremely curly.

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Hello, Jan

I am proud of the responses from everyone here on the thread. Jan, I am especially proud that you have the concern for the patient and her personal care. It is very important to keep that philosophy because it will show your caring.

I bathe my patients, wash hair and give oral care. My patients would feel so clean after the bed bath. I clean behind the ears, the body, face, in-between toes and feet. I only expose the part I am doing and the rest cover. I love washing their hair and to give them a head massage as I was wash their hair. Lastly, it give your patients the sense of feeling good about themsleves as well as being clean.

A lot of people are scare to attempt to wash afro-american's hair. Nevertheless, not inquring about it to the patient or a group of people how to do it. I am very impress with your communications.

Ask the patient could you assist her with the adls and hair washing as well. I believe she would allow you too. Remember, always ask if you do not understand something or do not know how to do it.

I am very impress with you and you will be a great nurse.

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