Showering or bathing a resident may pose a risk of exposure to infectious organisms through close contact with the resident, contamination through water splashes, or exposure to blood or body fluids. Managing the task well will help to prevent exposure.  A risk assessment before starting the task will enable decisions to be made on the best way of supporting the resident while providing protection for the healthcare worker and the level and type of PPE required. The risk assessment should include

What bathing method is appropriate

Can the resident self-care if the shower is set up for them

The likelihood of exposure to any blood, body fluid or other substance

The volume of blood, body fluid or other substances likely to be encountered

The possible route of transmission of an infectious organism

The type of exposure that could be possible

Whether the resident is colonised with infectious organisms, e.g., C diff, COVID-19, etc.,

Whether the resident is in isolation or cohorted with others

Whether the facility is in an outbreak situation which requires transmission-based precautions

To reduce the risk of splashing, place items needed during the shower or bath, e.g., soap/shower gel, face cloth, and shampoo, in a location so that they can be reached easily, either by yourself or the resident.

Selecting PPE

Standard precautions would indicate that the following be used as a minimum

Plastic apron

Gloves

Masks

Visor/Goggles

If transmission-based precautions are needed, the PPE will be determined by the outcome of the risk assessment and the facility's protocols and may include

Long-sleeved, impervious gown

N95/F2 respirator

Discard single-use, disposable PPE after use.

If eye protection, such as goggles, safety glasses and face shields, are dedicated to an individual healthcare provider, they should be cleaned and disinfected for reuse.   

Rubber Boots

Although rubber boots are not considered PPE they may be necessary to keep shoes and feet dry.  Rubber boots may be dedicated to a single healthcare worker or may be reused between them. To prevent direct contact of feet with the inside of the boot

For single healthcare worker use: wear socks to cover the feet

For multiple-healthcare worker use: wear socks and shoe covers over the feet

Clean and disinfect the exterior of the rubber boots after use and store them for reuse