When doing perineal care, which direction should you clean?

When performing perineal care, the correct method is to clean from front to back. This practice is important primarily for hygiene and infection prevention. Cleaning from front to back helps to avoid transferring bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra, which can lead to urinary tract infections, particularly in women, who are more susceptible to this type of infection due to their anatomy.

Using the front-to-back technique ensures that the genital area remains as clean as possible while reducing the risk of cross-contamination. It’s a fundamental practice in personal care that is taught for both personal hygiene and caregiver training, as it promotes health and safety in both settings.