Living with Guides - Can I Shower or Bath?

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Can I Shower or Bath?

Bathing is not usually permitted when you have a wound because it is not good for the wound to soak in your bath water. You may need to have a “sink bath” while your wound is healing.
There are two kinds of dressings – some dressings must be protected from water and some dressings are waterproof. Be sure to check with your nurse or doctor about what kind of dressing you have.
If your nurse or doctors says it is okay, you can take the dressing off and shower.
If you are permitted to shower, use a handheld shower, if you have one. Gently spray water from the top to the bottom of the wound allowing clean water to run over it.
Swimming is usually not allowed with dressings, however if you have a waterproof dressing, it may be okay. Again, check in with your nurse or doctor.

Do not use soap, shower gel, body lotion, talcum powder or other bathing products directly on your healing wound and do not rub the area, as this might be painful and could delay healing.

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If you have questions, concerns, or feedback, please contact the office you normally deal with (closest to the patient’s home address). You can find all the contact information for this office in your Welcome pamphlet.