FACIAL SHAVING

Definition
 Shaving the patient's face.
Assessment
 Review general physical assessment findings.
 Determine patient's ability to shave his own face.
 If unable to shave his own face, find out who usually assist him.
 Assess method for shaving patient's face e.g., in bed or chair.
 Determine patient teaching needs regarding facial shaving.

Objectives
1. To render necessary assistance in shaving the patient’s face.
2. To refresh the patient.
3. To promote self-esteem.
Equipment
 Basin of Warm Water
 Towel and Face Towel
 After Shave Lotion (Optional)
 Safety Razor or Electric Razor
 Shaving Cream or Soap Solution
 Clean Forceps
 Tissues
 Cotton Balls
Procedures
1. Wash hands.
2. Explain the procedures and its purpose.
3. Gather all equipment at the bedside.
4. Place patient in comfortable position.
5. Spread the towel under the patient’s chin.
6. Place a warm washcloth over the client’s face for a few seconds. Followed by the application of shaving
cream or lathering soap.
7. With the fingers of one hand, stretch the skin taut as you shave in the direction in which the hair is
growing. Hold the razor at about 45 degrees angle to the skin and use short firm strokes. Avoid the chin
and lips. Longer strokes on the longest areas of the face. Start under the side burn and work downward
on the cheeks.
8. Rinse the razor frequently.
9. Wash off remaining soap after shaving.
10. Inspect the skin after hair removal.
11. Apply aftershave lotion, as the patient prefers.
12. Clean your equipment and put it in its proper place. Discard used disposable supplies and equipment
appropriately.
13. Washing hands prevent the spread of microorganism.
14. To gain cooperation and relieve patient from anxiety.
15. Easy access to equipment prevents delay.
16. Comfortable position prevents muscle strain.
17. Protect the gowns from soiling.
18. Makes the hair softer and easier to remove in order to prevent pulling, scrapping, or cuts.
19. To avoid causing discomfort or razor cut. Following the direction of hair growth prevent skin injury.
20. Rinsing removes hair and lather that can obstruct the blade.
21. Soap that is left on the skin may cause irritation.
22. Ensure hair is safely removed. No scraping or cuts have been made.
23. For cooling and relaxing effect.
24. Prevent spread of microorganisms.

GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
1. Client prone to bleeding should use an electric razor.
 Those receiving anticoagulant or high doses of aspirin or those in low platelet counts.
2. Check for frayed cords or other electrical hazard when electric razor is used.
3. Electric razor is not recommended in patients receiving oxygen.
4. Electric razor should be used not only one client because of infection control consideration.

Evaluation
1. Patient’s face, chin, and neck are clean.
2. Patient is comfortable.

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3. Shaving is accomplished without discomfort to the patient.

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