PERINEAL CARE PROCEDURE

1. Definition

• Perineal care is the cleaning of the genital and perineal area to maintain hygiene and prevent infection.

2. Purpose

• To maintain personal hygiene

• To prevent infection (especially UTI)

• To promote comfort

• To aid in healing (post-delivery / surgery)

3. Indications

• Bedridden patients

• Postnatal mothers

• After urinary catheterization

• Patients with incontinence

• After surgery in perineal area

4. Contraindications

⚠️ No absolute contraindication, but:

• Use gentle care in surgical wounds or episiotomy

• Avoid harsh rubbing

5. Articles / Equipment

🧰 Equipment:

• Bedpan (if needed)

• Kidney tray

🧴 Supplies:

• Warm water

• Antiseptic solution (if prescribed)

• Cotton swabs / gauze

• Soap

• Gloves

• Towel

• Clean linen

📋 Records:

• Patient record (if required)

6. Patient Preparation

• Explain procedure to patient

• Provide privacy (use screen/drape)

• Position patient:

  • Female: dorsal recumbent

  • Male: supine

• Place mackintosh under patient

7. Procedure Steps (Step-by-Step Sentences)

🔹 For Female Patient

1. Wash hands and wear gloves.

2. Position the patient in dorsal recumbent position.

3. Place mackintosh and towel under the buttocks.

4. Separate the labia with non-dominant hand.

5. Clean the perineal area from front to back (urethra to anus).

6. Use one swab for each stroke and discard it.

7. Clean labia majora, labia minora, and vaginal area.

8. Rinse with clean water if needed.

9. Dry the area gently with towel.

🔹 For Male Patient

10. Position the patient in supine position.

11. Hold the penis and retract foreskin (if uncircumcised).

12. Clean the glans penis in circular motion from center outward.

13. Clean the shaft of penis and scrotum.

14. Replace foreskin to normal position.

15. Dry the area properly.

🔹 Common Steps

16. Make the patient comfortable and change linen if required.

17. Dispose of waste properly.

18. Remove gloves and wash hands.

19. Document the procedure if required.

8. Post Procedure Care

• Ensure patient comfort

• Keep area clean and dry

• Monitor for redness or infection

• Change linen if soiled

9. Complications

• Infection (UTI)

• Skin irritation

• Discomfort

10. Health Education

• Maintain personal hygiene

• Clean from front to back (especially females)

• Change undergarments regularly

• Drink adequate fluids

• Report signs of infection:

  • Burning sensation

  • Discharge

  • Redness

🎯 Viva Questions

Q1. Why is cleaning done from front to back?👉 To prevent infection

Q2. What is perineal care?👉 Cleaning of genital area

Q3. When is perineal care given?👉 In bedridden, postnatal, catheterized patients