Portable Sitz Bath 

Purpose: 

• To relieve pain. 

• To decrease inflammation. 

• To decrease swelling. 

Equipment: 

• Two bath towels. 

• Bath mat. 

• Resident’s gown, robe, and slippers. 

• Medication as ordered. 

Procedure: 

4. Preparation: 

• Ensure the room is free of drafts and maintain a temperature of approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit. 

• Fill the bathtub or sitz tub with 4 to 6 inches of water, ensuring the hips are covered with water. 

• Place a towel at the bottom of the tub. 

• Add medication to the water if ordered. 

• Ensure the resident voids before being taken to the tub. 

5. Assisting the Resident: 

• Help the resident disrobe and get into the tub. 

• Test temperature tolerance by allowing the resident to sit down slowly. 

• Cold baths typically last 2–4 minutes. 

• Hot baths typically last 5–30 minutes. 

• Cover the resident's shoulders with a bath towel. 

• Allow the resident to remain in the tub for the time ordered, monitoring for signs of discomfort or fatigue. 

• Note: Do not leave the resident alone at any time. 

6. Monitoring: 

• Watch for signs of fatigue. If the resident becomes faint while in the tub: 

• Drain the tub. 

• Lower the resident’s head. 

• Cover the resident with a blanket. 

• Call for assistance immediately. 

7. Post-Bath Care: 

• Assist the resident out of the tub. 

• Dry the resident thoroughly. 

• Return the resident to bed immediately to prevent chilling and position them comfortably with the call light within reach. 

• Clean the tub per facility policy and properly dispose of soiled linen. 

8. Water Temperature: 

• Cold Sitz Bath: 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. 

• Hot Sitz Bath: 100 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Compliance and Documentation: 

• Adhere to CMS guidelines and Requirements of Participation for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

• Document the procedure, including the resident’s response, in their medical record. 

• Note any observations related to pain relief, inflammation reduction, and swelling reduction. 

• Regularly review and update techniques for administering sitz baths according to the latest clinical best practices and regulatory standards. 

• Provide training to staff on proper sitz bath procedures to ensure resident safety and comfort. 

• Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with this policy and address any gaps in practice or documentation. 

References: 

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). State Operations Manual (SOM), Appendix PP - Guidance to Surveyors for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

• CMS Requirements of Participation for Nursing Homes.