Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

How frequently should a complete tub or shower bath be given to an ambulatory patient unless otherwise ordered?

1. Daily

2. Twice a week

3. Once a week

4. Every two weeks

The correct answer is: Once a week

A complete tub or shower bath for an ambulatory patient is typically recommended to be given once a week unless there is a specific order that suggests a different frequency. This guideline helps maintain personal hygiene while also taking into account the skin health of the patient, as overly frequent bathing can lead to skin irritation or dryness. Additionally, this frequency aligns with typical care standards in nursing facilities, striking a balance between cleanliness and preservation of the skin's natural oils. More frequent baths, such as daily or twice a week, may be too much for some patients and could lead to discomfort or adverse effects on their skin health. Conversely, infrequent bathing, such as every two weeks, may not provide adequate hygiene, particularly for those who are ambulatory and may experience more exposure to dirt and sweat. Therefore, once a week is an appropriate and widely accepted practice for ensuring that ambulatory patients remain clean and comfortable.