Final answer:
Soap should not be added when giving a bed bath because it may cause skin irritation (A), damage bed linens (D), and lead to ineffective cleaning especially in hard water (B). There is also a risk of an allergic reaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Soap should not be added to the water in the basin when giving a bed bath primarily because soap may cause skin irritation, especially for patients with sensitive skin or those who may be immobile for extended periods. Soap can disrupt the natural moisture barrier of the skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Moreover, using soap in a bed bath context could lead to residues that might damage the bed linens or leave behind a slippery film, increasing the risk of slipping for caregivers or the patient during further care.
- Soap may cause skin irritation due to its alkaline nature and the presence of fragrances and other chemicals that can be harsh on the skin.
- Dishwashing liquid, a similar surfactant, is known to cause hand eczema, indicating the potential for skin irritation from similar products.
- The presence of hard water can also reduce the effectiveness of the bath as soaps react with minerals in hard water, leading to scu/m and a feeling of not being clean.
Additionally, there is a risk of an allergic reaction to the soap. Patients may have specific sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in soap products, which can result in a more severe skin reaction.
Hence, the correct answer are Options A, B, and D.