The Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Providing Mechanical Bath in Terminally Ill Patients

Providing mechanical bathing (MB) is a commonly used strategy to maintain cleanness and comfort in patients with terminally illness. The electric medical bathtub (ARJO, Rhapsody) provides functions such as showering, bathing, and water massage. The MB will be operated by 2-3 nursing staff, trained hospice volunteers, or researchers. Each patient\'s MB process lasts about 20 minutes, including washing the hair and body with a handheld showerhead, followed by soaking in warm water for about 5-10 minutes. Based on the patient preference, the water temperature is adjusted between 38 to 40 degrees Celsius.