Bathing with a spinal cord injury

Disclaimer: This page contains observations and information from the personal experiences of Josh Basile. It is not intended as a substitute for the guidance and advice of trained medical professionals. Determined2Heal recommends that you always seek out guidance from healthcare professionals before partaking in any treatment.

Bathing

Determined2heal Tips:

This section of the website provides different bathing regiments.  All bathing regiments should be developed during inpatient rehabilitation by either a nurse or an occupational therapist.  As additional functional recovery returns schedule a visit with your occupational therapist to developing new bathing regiment.

Bathing tips:

• Check the water temperature before bathing someone because the patient can't feel below their level of injury

• Use a two in one shampoo and conditioner for the hair - makes it faster and quicker

• Wash from the head to the toes, leaving the private area and under armpits for last

• Completely dry the entire body with soft absorbing towels

• For overweight people with skin folds make sure you dry these areas completely

• Moisturize the skin with a moisturizing lotion

Inpatient Rehabilitation tips:

• Nurse

  • Should help develop the specific techniques and protocols for the bathing regiment

• Occupational Therapist

  • Should help develop the specific physical and functional independence aspects of the bathing regiment

Bed or Shower Bath

Learning the proper techniques for a clean and sanitary bathing regiment can be learned while attending inpatient rehabilitation.    After developing the specific techniques mollify the regiment for the patient's comfort.

Creating an accessible bathroom in your home

There are many factors that are involved when creating an accessible bathroom.  Working with many different skilled professionals is the key to constructing the best possible accessible bathroom. First get a architect and an occupational therapist involved with the design of the bathroom using the space available.  The architect and occupational therapist should work together to develop a functionally accessible bathroom for your specific needs.  Once the design is made then contact building contractors.  Contact as many building contractors as you can. I recommend at least at a minimum of three, so you can price around to see who is the least expensive.  I recommend asking around to other friends in wheelchairs or rehab facilities to find a contractors that are credible.  A lot of contractors are scam artists, be aware.

Accessibility and Universal Design click here

Some supplies and equipment that might help

 

Wash Basin "Designed to permit complete immersion of the forearm or foot. Holds 7 quarts. 14" x 101?2" x 41?4" (36 x 27 x 11cm). Individually poly bagged."

 

Combi Tilt Chair "Simple to use, backrest- activated tilting functions allows the chair to be tilted 25° backwards or 5° forwards for easier patient removal. Chair height, seat, neckrest, footrests, and armrests are adjustable. Measures approx. 21"W x 43"D x 37½"H (53 x 109 x 95cm) overall. Seat is 20"W x 17"D (51 x 43cm)."

 

Deluxe All-In-One Commode "Welded steel construction increases strength and durability. Plastic armrests are comfortable. Easy, tool-free assembly. Also comes with commode bucket, cover and splash shield. Durable plastic snap-on seat with lid. Adjusts from 18" to 22" (46–55cm) in 1" (2.5cm) increments. Unit is 24"W (61cm) with width between arms of 18" (46cm). Supports up to 300 lbs. (136kg)."