A woman nursing her father-in-law and being exposed to his `Awrah

Q: My sister's father in-law is paraplegic and is confined to bed. My sister is taking care of him because they do not have a maid. She cleans him and takes him to the bathroom and changes his clothes. Is he considered one of her Mahrams (unmarriageable relative) or not? Would you kindly advise me in this regard?

A: If there is no male to take care of him, his daughter-in-law is permitted to do so in case of necessity. However, she should screen his private parts, clean them for him from behind and wear a glove or coverage on her hand. Allah (Exalted be He) states: So keep your duty to Allâh and fear Him as much as you can It should be noted that wiping three times or more with cloths takes the place of cleansing with water if they remove the traces of urine and feces. (Part No. 24; Page No. 425) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.