Recovering from a broken humerus presents unique challenges when maintaining personal hygiene. Daily activities like showering require careful planning to prevent further injury and safeguard the immobilization device. The primary concern is ensuring a safe environment and protecting the fracture site from moisture. Proper precautions allow for effective cleaning while minimizing complications associated with a wet cast or a slip.
Essential Preparation and Supplies
The bathroom environment must be optimized for safety before any water is turned on. Placing non-slip mats both inside and outside the shower or tub basin significantly reduces the risk of falls on slick surfaces. These mats provide necessary traction for stable entry and exit.
Installing or using existing grab bars offers a secure point of contact when shifting weight or balancing. A shower chair or bench is highly recommended, allowing the individual to sit, conserve energy, and reduce the chance of losing balance while managing the injured arm. Sitting aids stability.
A handheld shower nozzle greatly simplifies washing, allowing water to be directed precisely while keeping the injured arm clear of the stream. This control is difficult with a fixed overhead showerhead. Gather necessary items and place them within easy reach of the uninjured hand. This prevents awkward reaching or bending mid-shower, which can destabilize the body.
- Soap
- Shampoo
- A washcloth
- A dry towel
- Loose-fitting clothes
Protecting the Immobilization Device
Keeping the cast, splint, or sling completely dry is paramount for preventing skin maceration, odor, and infection. Plaster casts lose structural integrity when wet, leading to fracture misalignment. Fiberglass casts have padding that can harbor bacteria and fungus if it becomes damp.
Waterproofing involves using multiple layers of plastic, such as heavy-duty garbage bags or large shopping bags. Overlap these layers carefully to cover the entire device, extending several inches past the edges. Secure the plastic tightly above the immobilization device using a strong rubber band or specialized waterproof medical tape.
The seal should be positioned on dry skin well above the cast line to prevent water seepage. Alternatively, specialized commercial cast covers are available and often provide a more reliable, vacuum-sealed barrier against moisture. Regardless of the method chosen, the injured arm must be kept elevated and positioned outside the direct stream of water.
Safe Showering Techniques
Always sit down on the shower bench or chair before turning on the water. Entering the shower area requires slow, deliberate movements, carefully stepping over the lip of the tub or enclosure while using the grab bars for support. Maintain a stable center of gravity at all times.
Once seated, position the injured arm so it remains outside the shower curtain or door opening if possible. If the arm must be inside the enclosure, hold it high and still, ensuring the protected cast is angled away from the spray. Direct the handheld nozzle toward the uninjured parts of the body.
Washing the body requires utilizing the uninjured hand exclusively, which may necessitate using a long-handled brush or washcloth to reach the back and lower extremities. Pre-dispense shampoo and body wash onto a washcloth or into a container to avoid fumbling with bottles mid-shower.
Washing hair is often the most difficult task and may require leaning the head back or using a dry shampoo alternative on non-shower days. If washing hair, ensure water runs down the back of the neck and away from the injured arm. Use only lukewarm water. Excessive steam or hot water creates humidity that may penetrate the cast or cause perspiration, leading to skin irritation.
Post-Shower Inspection
The post-shower routine begins with safely drying the uninjured body parts while still seated on the bench. Use a towel to gently pat the skin dry, avoiding sudden twists or movements that could jar the fractured humerus. Do not stand until the floor area around the chair is dry and safe.
Immediately after drying, perform a thorough inspection of the protective covering and the immobilization device. Carefully remove the plastic wrapping and check the edges of the cast or splint for signs of moisture penetration, discoloration, or softening. This immediate check is important because moisture can quickly compromise the cast padding.
If the cast material feels damp or smells musty, contact the orthopedic provider for guidance, as the cast may need replacement. For slight exterior dampness, a hairdryer set only to the cool or low setting can gently circulate air around the wet area. Never use heat, as it can cause burns or damage the cast. The final step is dressing, best accomplished using loose-fitting clothing, such as button-up shirts or oversized t-shirts. Always place the injured arm through the sleeve first to minimize manipulation and movement.