Nursing Component Task
Nursing procedures & clinical learning

Registered Mental Health Nursing (RMN)

SHAVING THE ARMPIT AND PUBIS OF A PSYCHIATRIC PATIENT

This is the act of removing hair from the armpit and pubic area of a patient using a shaving device (electronic/disposable).

Purpose

  • Boost patient’s confidence
  • Enhance patient’s body image
  • Prevent pediculosis (corporis and pubis) and other infections
  • Identify any abnormalities with ease

Equipment

  • A clean tray containing:
  • Shaving device (Electronic/Disposable)
  • Razor/ Scissors
  • Soap in a dish
  • Cotton wool swabs
  • Sterile gauze
  • A jar of water
  • Gallipot
  • Receiver for used sharps/swab
  • Protective material
  • Gloves
  • After-shave lotion/talcum powder
  • Antiseptic lotion
  • Screen

Procedure steps

  • Establish rapport (refer procedure)
  • Explain procedure to patient
  • Determine the patient’s usual shaving routine
  • Gather the patient’s preferred equipment taking into consideration any potential hazards
  • Set and send tray to the bedside/appropriate place for the procedure
  • Provide privacy and assist patient to assume an appropriate position
  • Protect patient’s bed and clothing and expose only the part to be shaved at a particular time
  • Lather armpit/pubic area with shaving cream or soap according to patient’s preference
  • Shave armpit/pubic area with shaving device from top to down using short strokes, beginning from one armpit followed by the other and then the pubic area
  • Use the hand without the shaving device to hold the skin below the area being shaved
  • Rinse the shaving device after each stroke as appropriate
  • Change water after shaving each area
  • Rinse and dry the armpit/pubic area when done
  • Apply the patient’s choice of after-shave lotion/talcum powder
  • Express appreciation to patient and direct him/her to the next activity
  • Clear the tray, disinfect used items and perform hand hygiene
  • Document procedure and any observations made in the nurses’ note/patient’s folder

References and further reading

Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.

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