Changes in vital signs and pain before, during and after bed bathing in the critical ill patient: an observational study
V. 173 N. 5 (2022), Observational Study
V. 173 N. 5 (2022)

Changes in vital signs and pain before, during and after bed bathing in the critical ill patient: an observational study: doi: 10.7417/CT.2022.2456

Observational Study
Pubblicato 2022-09-28
L. Scozzo
Department of Health Professions, San Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
A. Viti
San Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
L. Tritapepe
San Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
A. Mannocci
Faculty of Economics, “Universitas Mercatorum” University of Italian Chambers of Commerce, of Rome, Italy
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Parole chiave

vital signs
bed bathing
intensive care unit
pain
critical care pain observation tool
critical ill patient

Abstract

Aim: The aim of tehstudy was  evaluate whether the vital signs of patients hospitalized intensive care unit (ICU) before, during and after bed bathing vary statistically significantly. In addition, we want to evaluate in subjects who do not have painkilling therapy if the parametric changes are related to the perception of pain.

Materials and Methods: The chosen study is of a transversal observational type. The sample is made up of critically ill patients, adults, hospitalized for at least 24 hours and daily bathing in bed. By means of a card, the patient's socio-demographic and clinical data and vital parameters were collected in conjunction with 4 pre-established moments: T0 rest, T1 while bathing in bed, T2 immediately after, T3 20/30 minutes from the term.

Results: 19 patients were enrolled. All vital functions show statistically variations (p <0.05), particularly at T1. Even when stratifying by gender, the parameters change significantly, except for pain in women (p = 0.39), body temperature in men (p = 0.06) and diastolic blood pressure in both genders.

Conclutions: It is possible to conclude that the practice of bathing in bed modifies the parametric values ​​of patients in a critical area; however, the potential influence of certain factors that may have compromised the data cannot be limited. The application of innovative techniques to minimize interference (control of the microclimate, use of electrodes resistant to shocks and water) was reccomnded, so too the adherence to the Evidence Based Care reduces the risk of complications and guides professional action in the best possible way.

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