Phase two FG results in our study highlighted
that RNs varied in their beliefs about their choice
and subsequent use of cleansing products. This was
based on RN strong individual preference. It was
identified that the use of the patient’s own bath
products was a common practice. This result is not
previously reported in the literature.
It has been suggested that caution is recommended
with the use of alkaline soaps.10,12 In this
study 22.2% of patients (n = 119) were bed-bathed
because of incontinence and in 71% of bed-bath
episodes pH balanced soap or liquid soap and
water was used as the cleansing agent. The avoidance
of soaps for cleansing incontinence-associated
dermatitis is fundamental and the use of soap substitutes
and emollients is recommended to restore
the natural barrier function of the skin.13 Thus
findings in this study were not congruent with
evidence-based practice.