Showers

The importance of taking a shower is significant for your skin. I try to take a shower every other day and use a few different soaps and conditioners. I also use a skin exfoliator and you can find it on my Amazon shopping list on my website.

It used to give me a lot of anxiety to be transferred into a shower chair and do my showers. However, after some time, I have become more confident with it. Having a significant other definitely helped me build confidence, and she helped me to feel comfortable in uncomfortable times, because there are times when you have to get out of your own mind to have a better life.

Learning to take a shower independently after a spinal cord injury can be a significant milestone in regaining independence. There are various adaptive equipment and techniques available that can assist individuals with limited mobility in the shower. These may include grab bars, shower chairs or benches, handheld showerheads, and non-slip mats. Additionally, occupational therapists can provide guidance and training on how to safely maneuver in the shower and perform self-care tasks. The ability to shower independently not only promotes physical well-being by maintaining personal hygiene but also has a positive impact on mental and emotional well-being. It allows individuals to regain a sense of control over their daily routine and fosters a greater sense of self-sufficiency. Taking a shower independently can also enhance social participation and integration as it eliminates the need for constant assistance from others. Overall, achieving this level of independence in self-care tasks can be empowering and contribute to a more fulfilling life after a spinal cord injury.

I am very grateful to my support staff or caregivers who so often go above and beyond to give me the best quality of life. I am also grateful for the many resources out there that help me make the most of my independence. Through support groups, online resources, and assistive technology, I am able to find the tools and support I need to make the most of my life.

My shower care instruction manual is updated annually and reads like this:

• Jordan Showers every other day

• Showers immediately proceed bowel care

• Be sure to turn on the bathroom heater 15 minutes before when necessary

• Roll Jordan into the shower enough to reach the water and listen to his directions for temperature preference.

• Once the ideal temperature is achieved put him under the shower setting (soft rainfall)

• Do not let the waterfall directly on his head- more rainfall on his shoulders and back.

• Start with his hair- communication is key.

("Jordan I will shampoo now", "Jordan, it is time to rinse the shampoo")

• When rinsing the shampoo be aware that water in his face for prolonged periods is uncomfortable and unwelcome. use sweeping motions and good communication. "Keep your eyes closed, but we will need to rinse again"

• Give him ample time to breathe between rinses and wait for him to acknowledge his readiness to be rinsed again.

• Once his hair is rinsed wash his back. He will need support and compassionate understanding because you must loosen the chest strap.

• Rinse his back and then tighten the strap back across his chest.

• Jordan can wash himself with supervised support (arms and chest)

• You will need to carefully wash his genitals, buttocks, and legs.

• Communication is key to an effective shower.

Things of note:

• Water temperature is his choice.

• Environment (let him play his music, use the heater, and give him time to relax in the water).

• It is kind to wash him effectively and completely and provide him time to enjoy the warmth and relaxation provided by the shower.

• The ability to control body temperature is a challenge, so a great tip is to give him a hand towel wrapped over his shoulders and soaked in warm water. Check it frequently and listen to Jordan's requests for temperature control.

Please remember that a shower is essential to the quality of life and happiness for each of us. Please give Jordan the space and support to enjoy his shower.

He must not be left alone, in the shower.

Getting out of the shower

• Give him two towels. A regular towel for his head

• A bath sheet to cover his body.

• Let him dry a little in front of the heater if he chooses and enjoys his music before moving to the bed and bedtime instructions.

• He will likely want a shirt once he is in bed.

• Make sure to dry him thoroughly- his skin integrity is vital.

The caregiver keeps my care book updated whenever there is any change. This is an important part of palliative care. It is important to document any changes in case the patient's condition worsens. It also helps to keep the family informed and provides a sense of security. Finally, it helps to ensure that the patient's care is consistent.