The effect of hygienic care practices given to stroke patients on vital signs of patients: A self-comparison pre-experimental study

Abstract

Background: Hygiene and skin care are crucial for stroke patients in intensive care, yet the effects of bathing practices on vital signs in mechanically ventilated stroke patients remain underexplored.

Aim: This study aimed to assess the effects of full bed baths and wiping baths on vital signs in stroke patients.

Study design: A self-comparison pre-experimental study was conducted with 90 stroke patients treated in three intensive care units at a Turkish hospital between 10 January 2021 and 01 January 2022. Patients received either a full bed bath (first measurement day) or a wiping bath (second and third measurement days). Vital signs and arterial blood gas values were measured before and after each bath.

Results: Of the participants, 55.5% were male, with a mean age of 64.2 ± 14.8 years. Significant changes in heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and body temperature were observed after the full bed bath (heart rate: λ = 0.156, F = 43.940; systolic BP: λ = 0.484, F = 17.981; diastolic blood pressure: λ = 0.835, F = 7.216; body temperature: λ = 0.97, F = 142.92; p < .001). Similarly, wiping baths resulted in significant changes (heart rate: λ = 0.354, F = 34.776; systolic blood pressure: λ = 0.384, F = 16.372; diastolic blood pressure: λ = 0.492, F = 17.603; body temperature: λ = 0.236, F = 176.765; p < .001). Arterial blood gas changes were significant after wiping baths on Day three (pH: t = 3.351, p = .001; PaO2: t = 2.400, p = .018).

Conclusions: Both full and wiping bed baths significantly affect vital signs and arterial blood gases in stroke patients. Nurses should tailor bathing practices to patient needs, continuously monitoring vital signs.

Relevance to clinical practice: This study highlights how bathing practices impact vital signs and arterial blood gases in intensive care patients. It emphasizes tailoring interventions to patient needs and preferences, as full baths may suit some, while wiping baths offer advantages, particularly for blood pH and PaO2 levels.