PLAN AND STRATEGIES

(1) Remind the patient to call for assistance when getting up. The combination of the
elevated temperatures and sponge bath could weaken the patient.

(2) Check the patient’s temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate every 15 minutes.

(3) Maintain a level of privacy.

c. Procedure

(1) Observe patient for elevated temperature. Review physician’s orders.

(2) Explain the procedure and importance to patient.

(3) Perform hand hygiene.

(4) Provide Privacy

(5) Prepare the equipment:

(a) Bath basin.

(b) Tepid water (37ºC; 98.6ºF)

(c) Washcloth (4).

(d) Bath thermometer.

(e) Bath blanket.

(f) Patient thermometer.

(6) Cover patient with blanket, remove gown, and close windows and doors.

(7) Test the water temperature. Place washcloths in water and then apply wet cloths to
each axilla and groin.

(8) Gently sponge an extremity for about 5 minutes. If the patient is in tub, gently
sponge water over his upper torso, chest, and back.
(9) Continue sponge bath to other extremities, back, and buttocks for 3 to 5 minutes
each. Determine temperature every 15 minutes.

(10) Change water; reapply freshly moistened washcloths to axilla and groin as
necessary.

(11) Continue with sponge bath until body temperature falls slightly above normal.
Discontinue procedure according to SOP.

(12) Dry patient thoroughly, and cover with light blanket or sheet.

(13) Return equipment to storage, clean area, and change bed linens as necessary.
Wash hands.

(14) Record time procedure was started, when ended, vital signs, and patient’s
response.