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Personal Care & Hygiene

Before a tub bath, the nursing assistant must

From Activities of Daily Living 2026 Quiz

Answer choices

  1. A check to be sure that tub is clean
  2. B fill the tub with water at 120 degrees F
  3. C have the room temperature about 60 degrees F
  4. D place the soap close to the tub

Correct answer: A. check to be sure that tub is clean

Clinical Rationale

Before a tub bath, the nursing assistant must check to be sure that tub is clean.

Ensuring the cleanliness of the tub is a critical step in maintaining hygiene and preventing infections for the patient. A clean tub is essential for safe and effective bathing, promoting the overall well-being of the individual receiving care.

A) check to be sure that tub is clean

This choice emphasizes the importance of hygiene in patient care, as a clean tub prevents the risk of infection and contributes to the patient's comfort and safety during the bathing process.

B) fill the tub with water at 120 degrees F

While water temperature is important for comfort, it is not the first priority before a tub bath. The water should be filled to a safe and comfortable temperature, usually around 100-105 degrees F, but ensuring the tub is clean takes precedence to prevent any potential health risks.

C) have the room temperature about 60 degrees F

Maintaining a comfortable room temperature is important for patient comfort, but a temperature of 60 degrees F is too cool and could lead to discomfort or hypothermia. The focus should be on the cleanliness of the tub before addressing room temperature.

D) place the soap close to the tub

While having soap accessible is convenient, it is not as critical as ensuring the tub's cleanliness. The primary concern should be the hygiene of the bathing environment, which directly impacts patient safety.

Conclusion

Prioritizing the cleanliness of the tub before a bath is essential for patient safety and hygiene. While other factors such as water temperature, room temperature, and access to soap are important, they are secondary to ensuring that the bathing area is free from contaminants. This practice underscores the nursing assistant's role in providing a safe and hygienic bathing experience.

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