Sitz Bath

Definition
A sitz bath (also called a hip bath) is a
type of bath in which only the hips and
buttocks are soaked in water or saline
solution. Its name comes from the
German verb "sitzen," meaning "to sit."
Purpose
A sitz bath is used for patients who have
had surgery in the area of the rectum, or
to ease the pain of hemorrhoids, uterine
cramps, prostate infections, painful
ovaries, and/or testicles. It is also used to
ease discomfort from infections of the
bladder, prostate, or vagina. Inflammatory
bowel diseases are also treated with sitz
baths.
Precautions
Some patients may become dizzy when
standing up after sitting in hot water; it is
best to have someone else present when
doing a contrast sitz bath.
 Equipment:
Supplies and
Equipment
•Sitz bath tub
•Bath towels
•Cotton bath
blanket
•Bath
Thermometer
Equipment used for sitz baths. A sitz bath, in which only the
hips and buttocks are soaked in water or saline solution, is used
for patients who have had surgery in the rectal area or to ease
discomfort from bladder, prostate, or vaginal infections.
 STEPS:
1. Make sure the sitz tub is clean or is to be used by only one client. Use
gloves when cleaning.
RATIONALE: If several clients will use the sitz tub, it must be sanitized
between uses. Use the solution and methods as directed by the facility.

2. Check the order. The physician will prescribe the length of the treatment,
which is usually 15-30 min.
RATIONALE: Performing the sitz bath for the prescribed length of time
promotes effectiveness of treatment.
 
3. Fill the sitz tub to the required depth, with water of the specified
temperature. The client’s body will displace water in proportion to size.
RATIONALE: An adequate depth of water is needed to achieve therapeutic
effect.
 
 ..CONT..
4. Place a large bath towel in the bottom of the sitz tub. If needed, place a
drain adapter in place, so that the sitz tub drains continuously.
RATIONALE: The towel make the sitz tub more comfortable and easier to
clean.
 
5. Help the client onto the sitz tub, with the client sitting far enough forward to
avoid occluding the drain. A short client may need a stool his or her feet.
RATIONALE: The stool prevents pressure on the leg’s blood vessels.
 
6. Cover the upper and lower part of the client’s body with a cotton bath
blanket.
RATIONALE: Covering the client prevents chilling and protects the person from
drafts.
 
7. Set the water temperature gauge on the faucet to maintain the required
temperature. Adjust the water supply and drain to maintain a constant water
circulation.
RATIONALE: Water of the correct temperature is the most therapeutic and
safest.
 
 .,,CONT..
8. Use a bath thermometer. If the aim of the sitz bath is to apply heat,
start the temperature at 95̊ F (35̊ C) and gradually increase it to a
maximum of 105̊ F (40.5̊ C). If giving the sitz bath to cleanse and
promote healing, maintain the bath temperature from 94̊ F to 98̊ F
(34.4̊ to 36.6̊ C).
RATIONALE: Extremely hot temperatures may damage skin tissues,
rather than promote their healing. Sitz tubs in many facilities are set so
that the temperature can not exceed 105̊ F.
 
9. Watch the client closely for signs of fainting or weakness.
RATIONALE: Heat promotes vasodilation, drawing blood away from the
brain.
 
10. Help the client out of the sitz bath after the specified time of
treatment. Assist the client with drying.
RATIONALE: Vasodilation could cause the person to feel faint when
standing or walking.
 ..,CONT.,
11. Help the client to bed after the bath.
RATIONALE: Heat applied to a large area of the body may make the client feel weak
or faint because blood is drawn away from the brain. Resting in bed allows the
client’s circulation to return to normal.
 
12. Cover the client adequately.
RATIONALE: Covering the client protects him or her from drafts and chilling.
 
13. While wearing gloves, clean the sitz tub, according to the agency’s policy for the
client’s specific condition . If the sitz tub is to be used for only one client, be sure it
is labeled with the clients name.
RATIONALE: Proper cleaning after client use reduces the risk of cross-contamination.
 
15. Wash the hands.
RATIONALE: Handwashing helps to prevent transmission of microorganisms.
 
16. Document the treatment on the client’s chart.
RATIONALE: Documentation provides communication and continuity of care.