HOT SITZ BATH

Nursing Interventions & Procedures
HOT SITZ BATH
A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that cleanses 
the perineum, which is the space between the 
rectum and the vulva or scrotum. A sitz bath can 
also provide relief from pain or itching in the 
genital area.
OBJECTIVES:

 To relieve muscle spasm
 To soften exudates

 To hasten healing

 To reduce congestion and provide comfort in the 
perineal area
INDICATIONS:

 recently having surgery on the vulva or vagina
 recently having given birth (Episiotomy)

 recently having hemorrhoids surgically removed

 having discomfort from hemorrhoids/ Anal 
Fissures
 having discomfort with bowel movements

 uterine cramps
EQUIPMENT

 Sitz bath kit (basin bowl, tubing, water bag, air 
pump) or Commode
 Bath thermometer

 Warm water (100°F ­ 105°F or 37.8°C – 40.5°C)

 Bath Towel

 Bath Blanket
 Nursing Interventions Rationale
1. Confirm patient’s identity.
2. Check physician’s order for sitz bath To know if it is indicated for the patient.
patient.
3. Explain purpose and procedure to patient. For the patient to be aware on the purpose
and procedure.
4. Wash your hand and prepare the To save time and effort.
materials needed:

• Wear gloves Helps to prevent transmission of

• Set the basin in the rim of the toilet bowl.
• Fill clean basin bowl/ commode about
one-third full or 3-4 inches with
warm water. (100°F -105°F or 37.8°C
40.5°C).
• Fill the water bag with warm water and
prime tubing. Secure the notch in the
bottom of the basin.
5. Set the water in a basin bowl with a bath
thermometer.
microorganism
An adequate depth of water is nedded to
achieve therapeutic effect.
Water bag will create a gentle swing of
water.
Water at a temperature of 37.8 to 40.5°C
will produce relaxation of the parts involved.
Extremely hot temperature may damage
skin tissues rather than promote healing.
 Nursing Interventions Rationale
6. Assist the patient to sit on basin Stool prevents pressure on the legs’ blood
bowl/ commode and position him vessels and prevents injury.
properly. Check to see whether there is
pressure against the patient’s thighs or
legs. If the patient’s feet do not touch
the floor, a stool should be used to
support the feet and to relieve the
pressure on the back of the legs. The
bath can seem very long if one’s body
is not in good alignment and
comfortable.

Normally, Hot sitz bath should be done Warm soaks should not last longer than 20
for 15-20 minutes. minutes to prevent rebound vasoconstriction.

7. Place a bath blanket on patient’s

Provides privacy.
lap.
8. Observe the patient closely for
Heat promotes vasodilation, drawing blood
weakness and fainting. Discontinue the
away from the brain
bath if the patient’s condition warrants.
 Nursing Interventions Rationale
9. Test the water in the basin several times,
Adding hot water and stirring help maintain
and keep it at the desired temperature.
the proper temperature which promotes
Additional hot water may be added by
vasodilation.
pouring it slowly.
10. Help the patient to stand up when the To prevent injury from falling.
bath is completed.
11. Help the patient dry, and cover the Provides privacy
patient adequately.
12. Assist the patient to his bed, where it is
best for him to lie down, and out of drafts To prevent injury
until normal circulation returns.
13. Get the sitz bath basin kit ready for its Prepares equipment for the next use.
next use by cleaning it thoroughly.

14. Wash hands Hand washing helps to prevent

transmission of microorganisms.

15. Document the treatment and the client’s Documentation provides communication
reaction. and continuity of care.
Contraindications:

 Menstruating and Pregnant women

Important Considerations:

A sitz bath carries very little risk of harm because it’s a 
noninvasive treatment but the patient should be observed 
closely for:

 signs of weakness and faintness
 redness, swelling, burns, blisters or fluid leaking from 
incision that gets worse
 pain that gets worse

 
 
NURSING ALERT!

Vasodilation from heat application over a large area of 
the body may cause hypotension. All clients should be 
monitored closely and assisted when rising.
Rationale: This helps to prevent injuries

Heat applications may be contraindicated in clients with 
known cardiac conditions or those taking certain cardiac 
medications and medications to lower blood pressure.
Rationale: These people may be more susceptible to 
changes in blood pressure and blood flow.

 The application of heat is almost always contraindicated 
if client is actively bleeding.
Rationale: Heat application can increase blood flow and 
thus increase the bleeding.