The nurse notes that the elderly client she is caring for has dry, fla

The nurse notes that the elderly client she is caring for has dry, flaky skin on her hands, face, arms, and legs. The nurse knows that elderly clients may need bathing:

1. More frequently due to keeping their warmer environments
2. Less frequently than younger clients due to dry skin
3. With strong soap due to issues with incontinence
4. With very hot water and vigorous rubbing to remove dead skin cells

ANSWER

ANS: 2
The elderly may bathe less frequently and rinse body of all soap because residue left on skin can cause irritation and breakdown. The elderly frequently have their environments warm due to poor circulation. They don’t necessarily perspire any more than do younger age-groups. They should bathe with mild soap and use lots of moisturizer to prevent the skin from further drying. Hot water depletes the skin of natural oils, drying it out. Vigorous rubbing can damage the skin.