SKIN  CARE

Non-medical and Medical Responders

A bath should occur at least once every 24 hours with spot cleaning as necessary. Unconscious patients should be checked every 2 hours in case of involuntary bowel or bladder emptying. Cleaning the skin is an opportunity to evaluate additional injuries and visualize any new areas of erythema or skin breakdown.  This includes a complete wipe down on all non-injured areas using the minimum, better, best method as stated below.8 Conscious patients should actively assist with baths and may use a shower if available. In the event that a shower is used, care should be taken to prevent introduction of water into dressings or invasive lines. Plastic covering and tape may be used to protect these areas.

Unconscious or bedbound casualties:

Guide for bed bath:

*Caution: If baby wipes or skin wipes are used to wash the skin, the wipes should be thoroughly rinsed with water first, because most contain alcohol and residues that can irritate the skin.