Low-cost technology: Use of discarded material to improve bathing in bedridden patients

Abstract

The technological advance seeks to improve the performance of bedridden patients’ therapeutical and hygienic activities. In this present study, a qualitative research containing 20 caregivers of 12 adult patients assisted by basics heath units (BHU) from the city of Maringá, in the region northeast region of Paraná state and in the south of Brazil. Every patient was bedridden with severe limitations, including locomotor ones. Vinyl canvas banners and others, such as raw material for the manufacturing of bed bath sheets. The caregivers were trained prior to the procedure and answered a questionnaire in order to evaluate the usage, accessibility and interaction with the patient during the hygiene. The study was approved by the ethical research committee on human beings (COPEP/UEM). The use of bed bath sheets by some caregivers was considered satisfactory, due to the good performance during the patients’ hygiene, in addition to contributing to the environment. All the evaluated criteria were 100% approved by the participants. The reuse of the vinyl canvas so as to fabricate the bed bath sheet attends the therapeutical needs of the bedridden patients, possessing economic, social and environmental relevance.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.012-036