What is the term for a bath where the patient’s entire body is washed while confined to bed?

The term "complete bed bath" refers to a specific technique used in healthcare, particularly in nursing, where a patient who is confined to bed receives a full wash of their entire body. This procedure is essential for patients who may be unable to bathe independently due to illness, mobility issues, or other health conditions.

During a complete bed bath, the caregiver ensures that every part of the patient’s body is cleaned, promoting hygiene, comfort, and skin integrity, which are vital for preventing infections and other complications. This type of bath can also provide an opportunity for the caregiver to assess the patient's skin condition and overall well-being.

"Complete bath" typically refers to a washing procedure but does not specify that it is done with the patient confined to bed. "Bed bath" on its own may imply any bath conducted while the patient is in bed, but it can often less specifically indicate that it might not involve cleaning the entire body. "Partial bed bath" indicates that only certain parts of the body are washed, such as the face, hands, and peri-care area, rather than the whole body.