The nurse has provided instruction to the client concerning the use of the sitz bath. After the instruction the nurse is evaluating the client's understanding of the education. Which findings indicate the need for further instruction?

Question

Select all that apply.
A) The client uses cool water for the treatment.
B) The client heats the water to a temperature between 115 and 120 degrees.
C) The client reports that the treatment will take approximately 20 minutes.
D) The client explains to the nurse that the treatment will result in a reduction of discomfort for her hemorrhoids as a result of vessel constriction.
E) The client reports the treatment will promote circulation to the problem area.

Answer 1

Ans: A, B, D
Feedback:
A sitz bath can be helpful in soaking a client's pelvic area in warm water to decrease inflammation after childbirth, rectal surgery, or to decrease the inflammation of hemorrhoids. Immersing only the pelvic region allows for application of local heat without widespread vasodilation that results when the entire body is placed in warm water. A sitz bath can be given in a special chair or tub in which the client sits. A portable device placed in the toilet also can be used and is illustrated in Figure 23-5. Warm water circulates gradually into the disposable device through tubing attached to a bag of warm water. The sitz bath usually lasts 20 minutes; the temperature of the water should be maintained at 105ºF to 110ºF, with care taken not to burn the client.