Ella Walter
Bedpans are devices that allow people who are bedridden or have limited mobility to urinate or have a bowel movement. They are designed to be as comfortable as possible for the user and can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, hard plastic, pewter, brass, pottery, glass, and porcelain. Using a bedpan can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but there are ways to make the process more dignified and private for the user. For those who are able, sitting upright with bent knees can make it easier to urinate. Additionally, playing the sound of trickling water can help to relax the user and encourage urination.
How to Pee in a Bed Pan
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who uses them | People with limited mobility, pelvic fractures, hip fractures, spinal cord injuries, or those recovering from hip replacement surgery. |
| Types | Disposable, reusable, male, female, slipper pans, petal pans, and bariatric bed pans. |
| Positioning | Place a waterproof pad under the patient, support their lower back, and place the bedpan under their buttocks. Raise the bed head until they are in a sitting position. |
| Privacy | If possible, leave the room to give the patient privacy. |
| Removal | Ask the patient to raise their hips, then carefully remove the bedpan. |
| Cleaning | Empty the bedpan into a toilet, then clean it as per the instructions. |
| Tips | Play the sound of trickling water, sit up straight, and bend your knees. |
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What You'll Learn
Bedpan or urinal?
Bedpans and urinals are devices that allow people to relieve themselves while in bed. They are typically used by people with limited mobility, such as those who are injured, ill, or recovering from surgery. Both devices come in disposable and reusable varieties, with some options being more suitable for men or women.
When using a bedpan, it is important to first place a waterproof pad under the user's buttocks to protect the bed from spills. The bedpan should then be positioned under the user's buttocks, with the curved edge towards them. If the user is male, the penis should be placed into the top of the urinal. If the user is female, a slipper pan or petal pan can be used, and it is important to wipe from front to back afterward. Once the user has finished, the bedpan should be removed, emptied into a toilet, and cleaned according to the provided instructions. It is recommended to leave the room if the user does not require assistance, as this gives them privacy.
Urinals are often recommended as a better option for men compared to bedpans when urinating. They are designed to prevent leaks and spills, reducing the risk of unpleasant odors and cross-infection. Female urinals are also available and are designed to be angled correctly to prevent leaks. Urinals can be used while sitting upright or lying down.
For individuals with spinal cord injuries or those who require assistance with bathing, mobile shower commodes provide a sturdy and portable toilet option outside the bed. However, prolonged use of shower commodes has been associated with skin breakdown and pressure ulcers. Absorbent products, such as pads and adult diapers, are also available to manage light to moderate incontinence.
Ultimately, the choice between a bedpan or a urinal depends on the user's preferences, mobility, and specific needs. Both options can help individuals maintain their dignity and independence while ensuring proper hygiene and sanitation.
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Getting into position
First, ensure the user is comfortable and has privacy. If the user is able, ask them to raise their hips slightly so that the bedpan can be placed underneath them. If the user is unable to raise their hips, a caregiver will need to support the user's lower back with one hand and carefully slide the bedpan underneath with the other. A waterproof pad should be placed under the user's buttocks to protect the bed from any spills. For male users, the penis should be placed into the top of the urinal, and the urinal should be held in place during urination. Female users may find it easier to use a female slipper pan or petal pan, which can be positioned between the legs.
If the user is in bed, the head of the bed should be raised slightly to help the user sit up. The user should be supported and encouraged to sit upright, with their knees bent, as this position makes it easier to urinate. If the user is in a bedpan, the caregiver should hold the bedpan in place and help the user roll off once finished. If the user is able, they can raise their hips again to allow the caregiver to remove the bedpan.
Tips for Users:
Some people may feel nervous or embarrassed when using a bedpan. Playing the sound of trickling water on your phone and closing your eyes can help. Imagining that you are squatting in a private place can also make it easier to relax and urinate.
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Placing the bedpan
Prepare the User and the Bedpan
First, ensure the user is in a comfortable position. If they are lying down, raise the head of the bed slightly, if allowed by their healthcare provider. Place a waterproof pad under the user's buttocks to protect the bed from any spills. If using a metal bedpan, run warm water over it and dry it before use, checking the temperature to ensure it is not too hot. Sprinkle baby powder on the edge of the bedpan to make it easier to slide under the person.
Position the Bedpan
Support the user's lower back with one hand. With your other hand, carefully slide the curved edge of the bedpan under the user's buttocks. If the user is male, guide him to place the penis into the top of the bedpan. If the user is female, carefully spread their legs and position the bedpan between them.
Provide Privacy
Once the bedpan is in place, the user may prefer privacy, if possible. If the user is weak, do not leave them alone.
Remove the Bedpan
After the user has finished, carefully remove the bedpan. If the user can lift their hips, ask them to do so, then slide the bedpan out. Otherwise, support their lower back with one hand and carefully remove the bedpan with the other. Place the bedpan on a chair and cover it with a towel. Put on disposable gloves and roll the user onto their side. Place a new waterproof pad under their buttocks to prevent any spills onto the bed.
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After you've finished
Once you have finished urinating, the bedpan should be removed carefully. If you are able to lift your hips, do so, and then remove the bedpan. If not, ask the caregiver to support your lower back with one hand and carefully remove the bedpan with the other.
After the bedpan is removed, the caregiver should wipe the area between your legs with a warm, damp washcloth. For females, always wipe from front to back. Then, gently dry the area.
The bedpan should be covered with a towel and placed on a chair. Put on disposable gloves, and roll the person onto their side. Place a waterproof pad under their buttocks to protect the bed from any potential spills.
The bedpan should then be emptied into a toilet. Clean the bedpan as recommended on the packaging or according to any additional information provided. Some bedpans can be rinsed with warm water and dried, but always check the temperature before placing it under someone.
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Cleaning the bedpan
The cleaning of bedpans is an important process to ensure patient care and infection prevention. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean a bedpan:
Step 1: Empty the contents
Start by emptying the contents of the bedpan into an appropriate toilet or disposal system. It is important to never manually empty the bedpan, especially not into a machine, toilet, or sink, as this can cause contamination.
Step 2: Initial rinse
Use warm water to rinse the bedpan, removing any remaining waste. This prepares the bedpan for a thorough cleaning.
Step 3: Apply disinfectant
Spray or pour a hospital-grade disinfectant into and onto all surfaces of the bedpan. Disinfectants are crucial in killing harmful bacteria, viruses, and pathogens that can cause infections.
Step 4: Scrub the bedpan
Use a cleaning brush or sponge to scrub all surfaces of the bedpan, paying extra attention to corners and crevices. This step ensures the removal of biofilm and stubborn residues that can harbour pathogens.
Step 5: Rinse with warm water
Thoroughly rinse the bedpan with warm water to remove any remaining disinfectant and loosened debris. This step ensures that all cleaning agents and waste are washed away, preventing skin and mucous membrane irritation.
Step 6: Dry the bedpan
Use disposable towels or cloths to completely dry the bedpan. Proper drying prevents the growth of microorganisms, as residual fluid can serve as a reservoir for their growth.
Step 7: Inspect and repeat if necessary
Check the bedpan for any remaining stains or residues. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process until the bedpan meets acceptable cleanliness standards.
Step 8: Dispose of waste and PPE
Properly dispose of any waste and personal protective equipment (PPE) used during the cleaning process. This step helps maintain a clean environment and prevents the spread of contaminants.
Step 9: Hand hygiene
Lastly, thoroughly wash your hands with liquid soap and warm water, dry them with a paper towel, and dispose of the towel. Hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of infection.
In some cases, bedpans are disposable and are thrown away after use, especially in healthcare facilities. Additionally, bedpan washer-disinfectors can be used, which offer a more hygienic option with automatic door openings to prevent contamination. These machines clean, disinfect, and dry the bedpans, making them available for reuse.
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Frequently asked questions
Using a bedpan can be uncomfortable, so it's important to stay relaxed and help the user feel at ease. First, place a waterproof pad under the user to protect the bed from spills. Then, place the curved edge of the bedpan under the user's buttocks. If the user is male, you may need to assist in placing the penis into the top of the urinal. Once the user has finished, remove the bedpan and wipe the user with a warm washcloth. Remember to wipe from front to back if the user is female. Finally, gently dry the area between the user’s legs.
If you are feeling nervous, try playing the sound of trickling water on your phone and imagine that you are squatting in the woods behind a tree. If you are a caregiver, it is important to respond quickly to the toileting needs of the person in bed.
Bedpans can be disposable or reusable, and there are separate designs for men and women. Bedpans are usually made from metal or hard plastic, but they can also be made from materials like pewter, brass, pottery, glass, and porcelain. For individuals who are over the weight limit, a bariatric bedpan can be used.
