Which term describes care of the genitals and rectal region?

• A. Neglect
• B. Perineal Care (pericare)
• C. Osteoporosis
• D. Hemiplegia

Answer: (B)

Perineal care is the term for cleaning the genital and rectal areas to keep skin clean, prevent irritation and infections, and protect the resident’s comfort and dignity. It’s especially important for people who are incontinent or unable to bathe themselves, helping reduce odors and skin breakdown. In practice, care is done with warm water and mild soap, cleaning from front to back to prevent contamination, rinsing, drying thoroughly, and noting any redness or irritation. The other terms don’t describe this hygiene task: neglect means not providing care, osteoporosis is a bone condition, and hemiplegia is paralysis on one side of the body.