Cody Casey
Knowing how to use a bedpan is a vital skill for caregivers, as it allows patients with limited mobility to retain their dignity and independence. The process can be awkward for both parties, so it's important to explain the procedure to the patient, showing patience and compassion, and assuring them that you know what you're doing. The patient should be assisted in removing their lower body clothing and positioned on their back with bent knees and feet flat on the mattress. A barrier, such as a towel, pad, or sheet, should be placed under the patient's buttocks to protect the bed linens. The bedpan should then be placed near the patient's hips, with the curved edge facing the back, before being slid under the patient's buttocks. The patient can then ease down onto it. Once the patient has finished, the caregiver should assist with cleaning and help the patient back into a comfortable position.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Explain the procedure | Greet the patient, explain the steps, and assure the patient that you know what to do and will make the experience as pleasant as possible |
| Wash hands and put on gloves | Wash hands with hot water and soap, dry hands, and put on a pair of disposable gloves |
| Provide privacy | Close the door, cover windows with curtains, and draw the curtain between beds if the patient has a roommate |
| Position the patient | Instruct the patient to lie on their back with knees bent and feet flat on the mattress |
| Place a barrier under the patient | Place a towel, waterproof pad, or disposable pad under the patient's buttocks |
| Position the bedpan | Place the bedpan close to the patient's hip with the curved edge facing the back |
| Slide the bedpan under the patient | If the patient can lift their hips, slide the bedpan under their buttocks and guide them to ease down onto it; if the patient cannot lift their hips, gently roll them to the side and place the bedpan under their buttocks, then roll them back onto the bedpan |
| Raise the head of the bed | Bring the patient into a more natural toileting position |
| Provide necessary items | Give the patient toilet paper and a call light within reach |
| Step away | Allow the patient privacy and let them know you will return to check on them in a few minutes |
| Return to the patient | Bring a basin of warm water, soap, toilet paper, and sanitary cleansing cloths; help the patient with cleaning and returning to a comfortable position |
| Remove the bedpan | Firmly grasp the bedpan and remove it, then empty its contents into the toilet |
| Clean the bedpan | Rinse and clean the bedpan with hot, soapy water, then dry and put it away |
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What You'll Learn
Explain the procedure to the patient and provide reassurance
It is essential to explain the procedure to the patient and provide reassurance when using a bedpan. Begin by greeting the patient and explaining that you will be assisting them with a bedpan. Show patience and empathy, as the situation may be uncomfortable and embarrassing for the patient. Reassure the patient that you know what you are doing and will make the experience as pleasant as possible. Explain each step before you perform it, to calm the patient and reduce their fear and uncertainty.
Inform the patient that you will be washing your hands and putting on gloves to maintain hygiene. Offer the patient privacy by closing the door and drawing the curtains. If the patient has a roommate, ensure their privacy by drawing the curtain separating the beds. You may also cover the patient with a sheet or blanket to maintain their dignity and modesty.
Explain to the patient that you will now assist them in getting into a comfortable position. If they are in a hospital bed, raise the head of the bed to bring them into a semi-upright position, similar to a natural toileting position. If the patient is not in a hospital bed, use pillows to raise them up as much as possible.
Let the patient know that you will now place the bedpan under them. If they can lift their hips, ask them to do so, and gently slide the bedpan under their buttocks, with the curved edge facing the back. If the patient cannot lift their hips, gently turn them to their side, facing away from you, and place the bedpan under their buttocks. Then, help the patient roll back onto the bedpan.
Reassure the patient that they can take their time and signal for assistance when needed. Inform them that you will step away to give them privacy but will be back to check on them in a few minutes.
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Wash hands, put on gloves, and provide patient privacy
To begin the process of positioning a bedpan for a patient, it is important to prioritise the patient's dignity and privacy. Start by greeting the patient and explaining the procedure, showing patience and compassion. Assure the patient that you know what to do and will make the experience as pleasant as possible. Explain each step to the patient beforehand to calm them and reduce their fear and uncertainty.
Now, wash your hands thoroughly with hot water and soap. When finished, dry your hands and put on a pair of disposable gloves.
Provide the patient with as much privacy as possible. Close the door and cover the windows with curtains. If the patient shares a room, draw the curtain to separate the beds. If possible, step away and allow the patient to perform any part of the procedure independently, only offering help if needed. Leave the call light within reach of the patient so they can signal when they need assistance.
When the patient has finished using the bedpan, put on a new pair of clean gloves. Dispose of the used gloves and wash your hands again. Return to the patient's side swiftly, bringing a basin of warm water, soap, toilet paper, and sanitary cleansing cloths.
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Position the patient on their side and place a pad under their buttocks
Positioning a bedpan for a patient requires careful and respectful handling. It can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing situation for the patient, so it is important to explain the procedure and show patience and compassion. Assure the patient that you know what to do and will assist them through the process.
To position the patient on their side and place a pad under their buttocks, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Patient
Explain the procedure to the patient and assure them of your assistance. Wash your hands with soap and hot water, then put on disposable gloves. Provide the patient with privacy by closing the door and drawing the curtains. If the patient shares a room, ensure their privacy by drawing the curtain that separates the beds.
Step 2: Prepare the Bedpan
Place a waterproof pad or towel on the bed, under the patient's buttocks. This will protect the bed linens from accidental spills. You can also dust the rim of the bedpan with talcum powder or body powder to prevent the patient's skin from sticking to the bedpan. Check for any allergies before using powder.
Step 3: Position the Patient
Instruct the patient to lie on their side, facing away from you. Work carefully to prevent the patient from rolling off the bed. If the patient can lift their hips, ask them to do so, or assist them by placing one hand at the small of their back to help raise their buttocks.
Step 4: Slide the Bedpan
Slide the bedpan under the patient's buttocks, with the curved edge facing the back. Hold the bedpan close to the patient's body and gently guide them to ease down onto it. Ensure the bedpan is adequately positioned under the patient's buttocks.
Step 5: Position the Patient for Elimination
Gently roll the patient back onto their back over the bedpan. Raise the head of the bed to bring the patient into a more natural toileting position. Cover the patient with a blanket or sheet to maintain their dignity and provide them with privacy.
Remember to maintain a respectful and compassionate attitude throughout the process, and ensure the patient's comfort and privacy at all times.
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Slide the bedpan under the patient's buttocks
Sliding the bedpan under the patient's buttocks is a sensitive task that requires patience and compassion. It is important to remember that the process can be uncomfortable and embarrassing for the patient, so it is crucial to explain the procedure beforehand and assure them that you know what you are doing. Show empathy and maintain the patient's dignity throughout the process.
To begin, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water, and put on a pair of disposable gloves. If the patient can lift their hips, ask them to do so, or assist them by placing one hand at the small of their back to help raise their buttocks. You can also ask another caregiver to help the patient lift their hips.
Now, slide the bedpan under the patient's buttocks, ensuring the curved edge of the bedpan is facing the back and the deeper portion is directed toward their toes. Gently instruct the patient to ease their buttocks down onto the bedpan. Make sure the bedpan is adequately positioned under the patient's buttocks.
Throughout this process, ensure that the patient is covered with a sheet or blanket to maintain their privacy and dignity. It is also important to hold the bedpan close to the patient's body as you work, to prevent any accidental spills.
Once the bedpan is in place, raise the head of the bed to bring the patient into a more natural toileting position. If the patient is not in a hospital bed, place pillows under their back and shoulders to raise them up.
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Remove the bedpan and assist the patient with cleaning
Once the patient has finished using the bedpan, it is important to remove it and assist them with cleaning. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- If the patient is able to lift their hips, ask them to do so, and while they are lifting, firmly grasp the bedpan and remove it gently. Work carefully and avoid sliding the bedpan against the patient's skin. Cover the used bedpan with a towel and set it aside.
- Determine whether the patient needs assistance with cleaning. If they do, proceed to clean the patient's hands with a wet, soapy washcloth or sanitary wipes. For female patients, it is important to wipe from front to back, away from the vaginal area, to reduce the risk of infection.
- Clean the patient's bottom half with toilet paper. For female patients, it is crucial to wipe from front to back to prevent bacterial contamination of the urinary tract.
- Once the patient is clean, remove any protective pads or towels from the bed. If there has been a spill or contamination, immediately change the bed linens, and the patient's gown or clothing.
- Provide the patient with hand wipes and hand sanitizer. Dispose of your gloves and wash your hands.
- If the patient is unable to lift their hips, assist them by gently rolling them to the side, ensuring you have a firm grasp on the bedpan. Remove the bedpan carefully, and then assist the patient back into a comfortable position.
- Finally, clean the bedpan with hot, soapy water. Rinse, dry, and put it away.
Remember to maintain the patient's dignity and privacy throughout the process, providing reassurance and explanation as needed.
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