Colorado CNA Practice Exam

Ms. Martin is an elderly resident with very dry skin. What kind of bath would be appropriate for her?

1. Complete bed bath

2. Partial bath

3. Shower

4. Tub bath

The correct answer is: Partial bath

A partial bath would be appropriate for Ms. Martin because it allows for gentle cleansing while minimizing irritation to her very dry skin. This option typically involves washing the most important areas of the body, such as the face, hands, armpits, and genital region, while leaving the rest of the body dry. For someone with dry skin, this approach reduces the exposure to water that can further exacerbate dryness and potentially lead to skin damage. Additionally, using a gentle cleanser and applying moisturizer afterward can help maintain the skin's hydration levels. While a complete bed bath could be considered, it involves more water exposure, which might not be suitable for someone with dry skin. A shower might also increase exposure to water and potentially aggravate Ms. Martin's skin condition, and a tub bath could completely immerse her in water, which might further dry her skin out, making those options less suitable. Thus, a partial bath strikes the right balance by taking care of personal hygiene while being considerate of her skin condition.