Principles of Supporting an Individual to Maintain Personal Hygiene

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Outcome 1 - Understand the importance of good personal hygiene 1. Explain why personal hygiene is important Personal hygiene routines are something most of us take for granted. You get up, wash, brush your teeth, comb your hair, etc. But these routines are something that elderly people can find very difficult. We can imagine the effect it would have on us if we could not perform ur usual hygiene routine. We would start every day feeling dirty and unprepared. In elderly people, this can lead to agitation, frustration and depression. If we are caring for an elderly person, it is very important that we establish their daily personal hygiene routine to avoid these problems. Good personal hygiene routines for the elderly can also be useful in diagnosing abnormalities in physical health. If we are washing someone, we should look out for any lumps, bumps and bruises as well as any bodily changes that may indicate a health problem. If we are keeping a written care plan, it is worth making a note of any changes as these can help future diagnoses by medical practitioners. Personal hygiene prevents infection, and it helps to promote independence and routine into the service user’s life. 2. Describe the effects of poor personal hygiene on health and well-being. Poor personal hygiene can have a negative effect on the individual, and affect social relationships with others. The person we care for may be physically or mentally unable to maintain their own personal hygiene. Keeping clean is essential for good health. Poor hygiene can cause skin complaints, unpleasant smells and bacterial or parasitic infections. Self-esteem, confidence and motivation can all be altered by our body image, often reflected on our ability to care for ourselves and keep good hygiene practices Most people hate to be talked about, especially in a negative manner. By ensuring that our body is

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