back care steps in nursing

nursing and back care

A simple way to provide relaxation to your patients is through back care and massage. In nursing, back care involves massaging and cleaning the patient’s back while focusing on pressure points. This massage not only provides comfort but also aids in relaxation by stimulating the skin and offering emotional relief.

purpose of back care:

• To offer comfort: Provide a soothing and pleasant experience for the patient.
• To promote blood circulation: Enhance blood flow and reduce the risk of circulatory issues.
• To support restful sleep: Help the patient rest better and improve sleep quality.
• To prevent pressure sores: Reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers through regular care.
• To assess skin condition: Monitor and evaluate the skin for any issues or changes.
• To relax and ease muscle tension: Alleviate muscle and tissue stress, providing relief and relaxation.
• To energize and reduce fatigue: Rejuvenate the patient and help combat feelings of tiredness.

assessment

A comprehensive nursing assessment is crucial before administering a back massage to ensure patient safety and maximize therapeutic benefits. The assessment should include:

1. Behavioral Indicators: Observe for signs that might suggest a need for a back massage, such as discomfort or tension.
2. Patient Willingness: Determine if the patient is receptive and willing to receive a back massage.
3. Vital Signs and Physical Condition: Check vital signs, skin color, temperature, nail bed color, and tissue perfusion of extremities to ensure overall health stability.
4. Allergy Assessment: Identify any allergies that might affect the use of lotions or oils during the massage.
5. Contraindications: Evaluate any medical conditions or factors that could contraindicate or complicate back massage, such as recent surgery or skin infections.

planning

Ensure you allocate sufficient time for the entire massage process. Although the massage may take about 5 minutes, it’s essential to approach the session with a calm and unrushed demeanor.

1. Allocate Adequate Time: Set aside enough time for the massage and any preparatory or concluding steps.
2. Create a Calm Environment: Ensure the setting is tranquil and conducive to relaxation.
3. Gather Necessary Supplies: Prepare all required materials, such as lotions or oils, before starting the massage.

precautions for withholding massage or back massage

1. Skin Breakdown or Open Wounds: Avoid massage on areas with skin damage or open wounds to prevent further irritation or infection.
2. Suspected Blood Clots or Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Do not massage if there is any suspicion of blood clots to avoid dislodging them.
3. Impaired Skin Integrity or Fragile Skin: Refrain from massaging areas with compromised or delicate skin to prevent additional harm.
4. Recent Surgical Procedures or Injuries: Avoid massage in areas affected by recent surgeries or injuries to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.
5. Vertebral Issues or Risk of Fracture: Withhold massage if there are concerns about vertebral problems or fractures to prevent exacerbating the condition.
6. Severe Pain or Discomfort: Do not proceed with the massage if the patient is experiencing severe pain or discomfort in the area.
7. Patient Preference or Refusal: Respect the patient’s choice if they prefer not to receive a massage.

equipment needed

You need to prepare a tray that consists of the following items. 

• A basin that contains warm water
• 2 sponge cloths
• Towel and soap 
• Back-rub lotion or surgical spirit and powder
• Mackintosh and towel
• Paper bag and kidney tray

procedure

Steps for Back Care in Nursing:

1. Wash Hands: Thoroughly wash your hands before starting the procedure.
2. Screen and Explain: Assess the patient and explain the back care procedure to them.
3. Position the Patient: Assist the patient in turning onto their side or abdomen with their back facing you and near the edge of the bed. For female patients in a supine position, place a pillow under the abdomen to relieve pressure from the breasts and aid relaxation.
4. Prepare the Area: Lift the patient’s gown and adjust the bedding to expose only the necessary part of the back. Place a towel near the patient’s back to protect the bed linens.
5. Clean the Back: Wash the back thoroughly with soap, ensuring complete cleansing.
6. Apply Surgical Spirit: Pour surgical spirit onto your hands and apply it to the patient’s back in a circular motion. Repeat until the back is fully covered.
7. Rinse and Dry: Rinse off the soap and dry the back with a towel.
8. Apply Talcum Powder or Lotion: Use talcum powder or back-rub lotion to reduce friction. Apply with firm, long strokes, starting from the neck and shoulders and moving over the back.
9. Massage: Use both hands to massage the back with strong, ascending, and descending strokes. Focus on pressure points while using surgical spirit or lotion.
10. Powder Again: Powder the area again at the end of the procedure, which should take approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
11. Finish Up: Remove the towel, help the patient onto their back, and assist them in putting on their gown.

movements used in back care

• Effleurage: This is a long sweeping movement done using the palm abiding by the contour of the surface that is being treated; the fingers and the thumb are utilized over a tiny surface on the patient’s neck. Strokes must be rhythmical, slow, and gentle with pressure steady and in the course of the venous stream.
• Kneading: This is carried out with the ulnar side palm leaning over the surface and the thumb and the fingers grasping the subcutaneous tissues and the skin which shift with your hands. 
• Friction: This is done with the whole palmar surface of the fingers and thumb or hands over restricted areas. This movement is a spherical kneading form with pressure put against the underlying tissue part that cannot be grabbed. 

after care

• Fix things and ensure that the patient is comfortable.
• Get rid of the equipment and the screen. 
• Clean the items using water and soap and keep them ready for subsequent use. 
• Wash your hands thoroughly. 
• Record the time and date of the treatment and observation done on your record.

portea’s other services

Nursing care is often implemented in line with the care plan and so continuity of care during hospitalization and in discharge preparation has to be ensured. Both the nursing care effectiveness and the status of the patient should be constantly evaluated, and the care plan must be personalized as required. 

Portea Medical offers quality care with great compassion. They bring quality medical care into the homes of their patients and try to make primary healthcare not just more accessible but more accountable and affordable to their patient’s requirements.

Portea’s comprehensive services, from doctor consultations, physiotherapy, nursing home care, diagnostics, caretakers, medical equipment  and vaccination service ensure that all your healthcare needs are met with professionalism and care. Whether you need to buy or seek assistance,rely on us for top-tier healthcare solutions tailored to your requirements. Portea is your trusted partner in health.

faq’s 

1. How do I determine the skin condition before starting back care?

 Assess the patient’s skin for any signs of breakdown, irritation, or fragility. Look for open wounds, redness, or any other abnormalities that might affect the back care procedure.

2. What should I consider when identifying positions contraindicated for the patient?

Evaluate the patient’s medical condition, recent surgeries, or any physical limitations. Avoid positions that might exacerbate their condition or cause discomfort, such as those that put pressure on sensitive areas or are contraindicated by their healthcare provider.

3. What precautions should be taken if a patient has open wounds or skin breakdown?

Avoid massaging or applying pressure to areas with open wounds or skin breakdown to prevent further irritation and infection.

4. How often should back care be performed for patients? 

The frequency depends on the patient’s condition and needs, but it is generally done at least once daily or as required.

5. How can I ensure the back care procedure is effective?

Follow all recommended steps carefully, assess the patient’s response, and make any necessary adjustments to improve comfort and effectiveness.