Which action should the nurse be sure to take when preparing a patient for a bed bath?

A) Place the nurse call device within reach.
B) Cover the patient with the top linens from the bed.
C) Have the patient completely bathe himself to promote independence.
D) Wash the patient's body without assistance from the patient.

When preparing a patient for a bed bath (a bath for patients who must remain in bed but who are able to bathe themselves),place prepackaged bathing product,bath linens,a clean gown,and other bathing supplies on the overbed table.Provide privacy,and place the nurse call device within reach.Remove the top linens from the bed,and cover the patient with a bath blanket.If the patient cannot bathe all areas of his body,complete the bath for him.The nurse performs at least part of a bed bath; if the patient bathes himself completely while remaining in bed,it is referred to as an "assist bath."