Hair Care, Grooming, and Shaving

Grooming helps patients maintain their self-image and dignity. How a person looks affects their emotional well-being and social interactions. CNAs assist with hair care, shaving, and other grooming needs while respecting individual preferences.

Hair Care

Hair care includes daily brushing/combing and periodic shampooing. Each patient has unique hair care needs based on hair type, cultural practices, and health status.

Daily Hair Care:

• Brush or comb hair at least daily
• Remove tangles gently starting from ends
• Style according to patient preference
• Use patient's own hair products when available
• Check scalp for sores, lice, or dandruff

Hair Brushing Technique:

1. Section hair into manageable parts
2. Start at the ends and work toward the scalp
3. Use gentle strokes to avoid pulling
4. For tangled hair, use wide-tooth comb first
5. Never cut out tangles without permission

Shampooing Methods:

Bed Shampoo Procedure:

1. Position patient with head at edge of bed or on shampoo tray
2. Protect bed linens with waterproof pad
3. Test water temperature (105°F or less)
4. Wet hair thoroughly
5. Apply shampoo, massage scalp gently
6. Rinse completely (soap residue causes itching)
7. Apply conditioner if requested
8. Dry hair thoroughly
9. Style according to patient preference

Cultural Considerations in Hair Care

Different cultures have specific hair care practices. Always ask patients about their preferences:

Shaving

Shaving helps male patients (and some female patients) maintain their appearance. CNAs typically use electric razors for safety.

Safety Razor vs. Electric Razor:

When to Use Electric Razor (Preferred):

• Patients on anticoagulants (blood thinners like Coumadin/warfarin)
• Patients with bleeding disorders
• Patients who move unexpectedly
• When agency policy requires it

Electric Razor Shaving Procedure:

1. Check face for moles, sores, or lesions (avoid these areas)
2. Position patient comfortably (sitting up if possible)
3. Pull skin taut with one hand
4. Move razor in circular motion or against hair growth
5. Shave entire face as desired by patient
6. Apply aftershave or moisturizer if requested
7. Clean razor according to facility policy

Safety Razor Procedure (if permitted):

1. Apply warm, wet towel to soften beard
2. Apply shaving cream generously
3. Stretch skin taut
4. Shave in direction of hair growth
5. Rinse razor frequently
6. Rinse face with warm water
7. Apply aftershave or moisturizer
8. Dispose of blade in sharps container

Nail Care

Basic nail care is within CNA scope, but some facilities limit nail care for certain patients.

CNA Nail Care Scope:

Basic Nail Care:

1. Soak hands/feet in warm water for 5-10 minutes
2. Push back cuticles gently with orange stick
3. File nails in one direction (don't saw back and forth)
4. Shape nails straight across (especially toenails) to prevent ingrown nails
5. Apply lotion to hands and feet