Showering Safely With an LVAD
April 4, 2025
Waterproofing tricks and gear to help you clean up without worry.
April 4, 2025
Waterproofing tricks and gear to help you clean up without worry.
Staying clean and maintaining hygiene is an important part of daily life, but it becomes more complex when living with a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD). One of the most common questions patients and caregivers have is about showering. How do you do it safely without putting yourself or your device at risk?
At LVADStrong, the goal is to share practical, experience-based tips and resources that can help make day-to-day life with an LVAD more manageable. This article offers general guidance on showering safely with an LVAD. This is not medical advice. Every patient’s needs and equipment setup can be different. Please consult your LVAD team before making any changes to your routine.
An LVAD system includes a driveline that exits the body and connects to an external controller and power source. The driveline site must stay clean and dry at all times to prevent infection. Water getting into this area or into the controller can cause serious complications. That means extra care and planning are needed when it comes time to shower.
1. Keep the driveline site completely dry
This is non-negotiable. Moisture at the driveline exit site can create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infection. Infection is one of the leading causes of hospital readmission for LVAD patients. Use a waterproof dressing, but always check with your team on which kind is approved for use with your specific LVAD model and dressing supplies.
2. Protect the controller and batteries
The controller and power sources are not waterproof. Exposing them to steam or water can cause irreversible damage. These components need to stay sealed in a completely dry environment during the entire shower.
3. Be prepared before stepping in
Every item you need should be within arm’s reach before the water starts. That includes towels, soap, waterproof dressings, plastic bags, and your protective gear. The fewer steps you take mid-shower, the lower the risk of something going wrong.
Here are some items many LVAD patients and caregivers use to assist with showering:
Waterproof shower bag or shower kit: Many LVAD centers provide a specific shower bag designed to hold the controller and batteries. These bags are usually sealed and worn across the body or around the neck.
Tegaderm or waterproof dressing: These are placed over the driveline exit site to seal it off before showering. Only use what your LVAD team recommends.
Elastic bandage wrap: This can be used to help secure the waterproof dressing and give you a little more peace of mind that everything is staying in place.
Plastic wrap and medical tape: Some patients layer plastic wrap around their abdomen and secure it with medical tape for added protection.
Handheld showerhead: A detachable showerhead can give more control over water direction and pressure, minimizing the chance of water hitting sensitive areas.
Plan ahead: Know what you’re doing before you begin. Have everything ready and double-check that your dressing and equipment are secure.
Dress the site: Apply your waterproof dressing carefully. Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles. Add extra protection like wrap or tape if desired.
Secure the controller and batteries: Place them in a waterproof shower bag, then hang the bag on a sturdy hook outside of the water stream. Some people use a removable adhesive hook on the shower wall or a tension rod across the top of the shower.
Use lukewarm water: Hot water produces more steam, which can create moisture inside the shower bag. Keep the water warm but not too hot.
Keep showers short: Limit your time to reduce steam buildup and overall risk. Get in, clean up, and get out.
Pat dry immediately: Use a clean, dry towel and carefully dry around the driveline area without disturbing the dressing. Wait a bit before removing the waterproof dressing to ensure the skin is cool and dry.
Inspect the site: After your shower, look at the driveline exit site to check for redness, swelling, or signs of moisture. If anything looks off, reach out to your care team right away.
Do not take baths, swim, or immerse your body in any type of water. LVAD equipment is not designed for full submersion. This includes hot tubs, pools, lakes, and even soaking in a bathtub. Stick to showers only, and always follow your LVAD team’s specific guidelines.
This article is intended to provide general tips based on real-world experience from patients and caregivers. LVADStrong does not provide medical advice or replace the guidance of your healthcare provider. Talk to your LVAD coordinator or doctor before making any changes to your hygiene routine.
Showering may feel overwhelming in the beginning, but it does become easier with practice. Preparation, the right tools, and consistency are key. With the right habits in place, staying clean can be safe, simple, and stress-free.