Final answer:
In perineal care for females, washing from front to back is essential to prevent infection. The correct answer is D. from front to back.
Step-by-step explanation:
When providing perineal care to a female resident, the correct method is to wash from front to back. This technique is important because it helps to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the urethra and vagina, thus reducing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other infections. So, the answer to this question is D. from front to back.