What is the practice of cleaning the genital and anal areas called?

Perineal care specifically refers to the practice of cleaning the genital and anal areas. This type of care is essential for maintaining personal hygiene, preventing infections, and promoting comfort for individuals, especially those who may be unable to perform these tasks on their own due to age, illness, or disability.

By focusing on the perineal area, caregivers ensure that sensitive skin is kept clean and dry, which minimizes the risk of irritation, rashes, or infections. This practice typically involves using warm water and mild soap, following appropriate protocols to maintain the dignity and privacy of the individual receiving care.

The other options do not accurately describe this specific practice. Hygiene care is a broader term that encompasses various aspects of personal cleanliness but does not solely focus on the genital and anal areas. Genital care could imply a focus only on the genital area, excluding the anal region. Body care is a general term that refers to overall care of the body and does not pinpoint the specific regions involved in perineal care. Thus, perineal care is the correct and precise term for this important practice.