Scalp Care

Scalp Care

This procedure is necessary for a patient who is in bed for a long time this will give comfort and pleasure.

Purpose

1.        To keep the hair clean and healthy.

2.        To prevent itching, infection and infestation.

3.        To provide a sense of well being.

4.        To destroy pediculi.

Guidelines

1.        For bedridden patients give hair wash at least once a week.

2.        Avoid hair wash for the patient who has just taken meals within an hour.

3.        Avoid exposure – keep the patient covered, close the doors and windows, finish the wash quickly.

4.        If the patient is very sick, note the pulse before and after the hair wash.

EQUIPMENT

Method

1.        Explain the procedure to the patients, and screen the bed.

2.        Bring the articles to the bed side.

3.        Move the patient so that her head is near the edge of the bed. Arrange the pillow under her shoulder so that the head is tilted back protect the bed with the trough you made, with the end in the bucket, so that water will run down into it. Alternatively the patient may lie across the middle of the bed with a stool supporting her legs.

4.        Protect the patient’s shoulders with a small rubber sheet and towel and pin it in front.

5.        Fold and place the wash cloth over the eyes, and put cotton in the ears.

6.        Loosen the hair and comb out tangles.

7.        Mix the hot and cold water and test the temperature.

8.        Wet the hair with warm water. Apply shampoo and rub the scalp and hair well, using the soft pads of the fingers. Rinse the hair well, repeat shampooing and rinsing if necessary. Squeeze the water from the hair.

9.        Remove the bucket of dirty water and collect the trough into the second bucket.

10.   Place a clean towel under the patient’s head and dry the hair well.

11.   Make the patient comfortable.

12.   When dry, comb the hair and braid it.

13.   Remove the articles, clean and replace them, chart the procedure.