In male pericare, which area should be washed last?

• A. Wash around anus last & dispose of washcloth
• B. Wash hands last
• C. Wash face last
• D. Wash around the penis last

Answer: (A)

In male pericare, you finish with the area that is most likely to be contaminated. The area around the anus should be washed last because it can have fecal matter and bacteria, and cleaning it last helps prevent spreading germs to cleaner areas like the penis or surrounding skin. Use a clean portion of the washcloth and work from front to back, typically washing the penis first, then the scrotum and perineal area, and ending with the anal area. After cleaning the anal area, dispose of the washcloth to prevent recontamination, and then perform hand hygiene to protect yourself and the patient.