Cleansing the skin is an essential part of patient care for several reasons: 1. Infection Control: Proper cleansing can reduce the risk of infection by removing pathogens from the skin. 2. Wound Care: Cleansers help in cleaning wounds, thereby promoting faster and more effective healing. 3. Skin Integrity: Regular cleansing helps maintain skin integrity, preventing issues like pressure ulcers and dermatitis. 4. Comfort and Dignity: Cleansing can provide comfort to patients and help maintain their dignity, especially in cases where they are unable to care for themselves.