Bathing on bed at the intensive care unit: perceptions of whom receives it

Abstract

This study was accomplished with 12 hospitalized patients at the Intensive Care Unit of two public hospitals in Goiânia – Goiás (Brazil), in 2001. The aim of this study was to verify the patient’s view of “bathing on bed”. Data were collected through interview, using the critical incident technique. The instrument was validated and applied after observing all the legal ethical aspects. The results showed as negative situations: the lack of respect to individuality, and the insensibility of the professional. As positive situations: the availability of the professional to the care and the perception of care beyond the technique.