To RNs re: bedbath ... talc or no?

Question

Do use baby talcum powder on your patients or lotion? Why or why not? Is there any literature one way or the other you can provide?

I found out that baby powder no longer contains talc; however, there are still RNs in the ICU I work in that refuse to use it -- I'm still wondering why (I have asked and they say there is evidence to support not using baby powder ... just haven't been able to find any articles on same).

Answer 1

I've used both. I think it depends on the circumstance. I wouldn't want to put lotion on an area that was already too moist....For example, I think it's a mistake to apply lotion to lesions caused by sweat under breasts. I always use powder instead. Certainly, if the skin is dry, lotion would be preferable. I work on an ICU, so most of my pts are non-communicative...but if I worked in a nursing home, or hospice, I'd do whatever the patient communicated was most comfortable...after all, a bed bath is a big part of comfort care. I don't know of any literature on the topic, but I would think you could contact a wound care nurse and they would be able to point you in the right direction.

I know there are cases where baby powder that was accidentally contaminated caused deaths in infants. See article : http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3890/is_200507/ai_n14825278/pg_6

Found this powerpoint that supports use of baby powder as part of nsg care post radiotherapy. Seems like if it's safe for an immuno-compromised CA pt, it should be fine for an ICU pt.
http://www.bcn.ac.th/internationbcn/images/NursingCareinRadiotherapy.pdf

Answer 2

Use the lotion, the talcum powder also aggrivates the respiratory tract of COPD ers, asthma, emphysema, cystic fibrosis and some people just don't like the smell. The talcum may also get gummy if left in skin folds and promote bacterial growth. If you use lotion you can also give your patients a great massage. This will help promote blood circulation to areas that are prone to breakdown.

Answer 3

If you use talc, it would be best to put it in your hand standing away from the patient so they cannot breathe the dust from it. Then smooth on the patient. I think lotion is better than talc as the skin begins to break down from lying between sheets and the needed moisturizer helps chaffing.

Answer 4

No, certainly not on babies. The dust from it can get into the lungs and cause problems. I wish companies would stop making the blasted stuff for babies.