Swash bathing gloves were trialled at Sunhill Nursing Home in a quality improvement initiative led by Evergreen Care Group, Sunhill Nursing Home and Galaxy Healthcare. The study, “Evaluating the Impact of Swash Washing without Water on Infection Risk, Skin Integrity and Resident Wellbeing in a Nursing Home Setting”, looked at washing without water as an alternative to basin bathing.
Over an initial 4-week period in one unit, Swash gloves replaced basin bathing, showering and incontinence care. Each pack contains 8 gloves, and each body part is washed with a clean new glove.
What was measured at Sunhill:
- Skin condition improved from 4.5 to 7.3 on a 0 to 10 scale.
- Satisfaction rose from 5.8 to 10 out of 10, and likelihood to recommend was 10 out of 10.
- Bathing time reduced from 31.3 to 15 minutes (52%).
- Incontinence care time reduced from 20.8 to 15 minutes (28%).
The poster also reports that Swash supported independence for residents at risk of falls, enabled washing for residents who declined showers, supported gentle, comforting care at end of life and improved staff safety. Use has continued for these residents and others with skin issues.
Learn more about Swash bathing gloves.
Nursing homes interested in Swash are welcome to contact Galaxy Healthcare to arrange a meeting.
