When assisting a resident with a standard bedpan, follow a careful procedure

According to the World Health Organization, maintaining proper hygiene is a cornerstone of dignified care for older adults. Understanding the correct procedure is crucial when assisting a resident with a standard bedpan, ensuring both their comfort and safety.

Quick Summary

The correct procedure for assisting a resident with a bedpan involves gathering supplies, ensuring privacy, positioning the resident gently, and providing for hygiene and dignity throughout the process. The technique varies depending on the resident's mobility, but communication and proper infection control are always paramount.

Key Points

• Pre-procedure preparation: Always gather all necessary supplies and prepare the resident and environment to ensure a smooth process.

• Prioritize resident dignity: Maintain privacy throughout the procedure by closing curtains and doors, and communicating respectfully.

• Adjust technique based on mobility: Use the appropriate method for bedpan placement, either by lifting hips for mobile residents or rolling for those with limited mobility.

• Use proper body mechanics: Raise the bed to a comfortable working height to protect your back and prevent injury.

• Ensure post-procedure hygiene: Thoroughly clean the resident's perineal area and hands after the bedpan is removed, wiping front to back for females.

• Inspect and document: After removal, quickly inspect the contents of the bedpan for abnormalities and document the procedure and any observations.

• Prevent skin breakdown: Ensure the bedpan is not left in place for an extended period, as this can increase the risk of pressure sores.

Essential Preparation for Bedpan Assistance

Before you begin the process of assisting a resident with a standard bedpan, it is essential to prepare both yourself and the environment. This foundational step ensures a smooth, respectful, and hygienic experience for the resident and reduces the risk of error or discomfort. Start by explaining the procedure in a calm and reassuring tone, even if the resident has limited cognitive function. Your voice and demeanor can make a significant difference in their comfort level.

Gather Necessary Supplies

Having everything you need within reach prevents you from having to leave the resident unattended and ensures continuity of care. A typical supply list includes:

• Bedpan: The correct type for the resident's mobility (standard or fracture).
• Protective underpad: To protect the bed linens from soiling.
• Disposable gloves: At least two pairs to maintain sanitation.
• Toilet paper or wet wipes: For cleaning.
• Bedside table: To place items and cover the bedpan after use.
• Towel or blanket: To maintain privacy.
• Hand sanitizer or soap and water: For hand hygiene.

Preparing the Resident and the Environment

Privacy is one of the most important considerations. Close the room door and curtains. Ensure the bed wheels are locked to prevent movement. Adjust the bed to a comfortable working height for you, the caregiver, to avoid back strain, but ensure the resident's position is still safe.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Assisting with a Bedpan

The method for placing a bedpan depends heavily on the resident's ability to move. There are two primary techniques: one for a resident who can lift their hips and another for a resident who cannot.

Technique for Mobile Residents (Able to Lift Hips)

1. Position the resident: Lower the head of the bed until it is flat or as close to flat as the resident can tolerate. Have the resident bend their knees with their feet flat on the bed.
2. Place the bedpan: Ask the resident to lift their hips. Support their lower back with one hand while sliding the bedpan, with the flatter, curved end facing their back, under their buttocks with the other hand.
3. Adjust for comfort: Once the bedpan is in place, raise the head of the bed to a semi-sitting position (around 30-45 degrees) to promote natural elimination. Place a pillow under their head and provide a blanket for privacy.
4. Provide for independence: Ensure the call light and toilet paper are within easy reach. Leave the room to give the resident privacy, but remain close by.

Technique for Immobility or Limited Mobility

1. Position the resident: While the bed is flat, roll the resident onto their side, away from you. Ensure their arm is extended and their knee is bent to provide a stable position.
2. Place the protective pad: Place a protective pad on the bed under their buttocks.
3. Position the bedpan: Firmly hold the bedpan against the resident's buttocks and gently roll them back onto their back, centering the bedpan underneath them.
4. Adjust and provide privacy: Adjust the head of the bed as described above. Ensure they have the call light and are provided with privacy.

After the Bedpan is Used

Once the resident signals they are finished, or after an appropriate amount of time has passed, follow these steps to maintain hygiene and comfort.

Removal and Cleaning

1. Lower the bed: Gently lower the head of the bed until it is flat.
2. Remove the bedpan: If the resident can lift their hips, ask them to do so and slide the bedpan out. For immobile residents, roll them gently to the side while holding the bedpan firmly in place to prevent spills. Immediately cover the bedpan with a towel.
3. Perform peri-care: Help the resident clean their perineal area. For females, always wipe from front to back to prevent infection. Use clean wipes or cloths for each stroke.
4. Remove pad and linens: Roll the resident onto their side again and remove the protective underpad. Check for any skin irritation.
5. Final comfort: Help the resident into a comfortable position, replace the linens, and offer a washcloth for their hands.

Emptying and Documenting

1. Observe contents: Before emptying the bedpan, quickly observe the contents for any abnormalities, such as unusual color, consistency, or odor. Note any findings.
2. Dispose and clean: Empty the contents into the toilet, and thoroughly rinse the bedpan with cold water. Place the rinsed bedpan in its designated cleaning area.
3. Document: Record the procedure and any relevant observations in the resident's chart. Proper documentation is a crucial part of care.

Comparative Analysis of Bedpan Types

Understanding the tools at your disposal is key to providing optimal care. The standard bedpan is common, but in certain situations, a fracture bedpan may be necessary.

Feature	Standard Bedpan	Fracture Bedpan
Shape	Round, with a high rim and a wider, curved end.	Shallow, with a flat, tapered end that slides more easily under a resident.
Usage	Most common type. Ideal for residents with sufficient hip mobility.	Designed for residents with hip fractures, back injuries, or limited range of motion.
Placement	Requires the resident to lift their hips or roll completely onto their side.	Can be slid under a resident with minimal lifting or rolling, reducing pain and stress on injuries.
Comfort	Can be uncomfortable if the resident cannot bear weight on their hips for placement.	The tapered design is less intrusive, offering greater comfort for residents with mobility issues.
Risk of Injury	Higher risk if placed incorrectly or with insufficient hip lifting.	Lower risk of causing pain or exacerbating injuries during placement.

For more information on general caregiver practices and principles of dignity, refer to authoritative sources like the Family Caregiver Alliance.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Dignity and Safety

Assisting a resident with a bedpan is a sensitive task that requires both technical skill and compassionate care. By following a structured procedure, prioritizing the resident's privacy and comfort, and using proper infection control measures, caregivers can ensure the resident's dignity is maintained throughout the process. Consistent practice and attention to detail will build trust and result in a more positive experience for everyone involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct way to position a standard bedpan for a resident who cannot move?

For an immobile resident, first roll them onto their side, away from you. With one hand holding the bedpan against their buttocks, gently roll them back onto their back to center the bedpan underneath them. Ensure the flatter, curved end of the bedpan is positioned toward their back.

How do you ensure resident privacy when assisting with a standard bedpan?

To ensure privacy, close the room door, pull the privacy curtain, and provide a blanket or sheet to keep the resident covered as much as possible. Give them space and time alone after positioning, but remain nearby.

What supplies are needed when assisting a resident with a standard bedpan?

Essential supplies include a bedpan, disposable gloves, a protective underpad, toilet paper or wet wipes, a cover for the bedpan, and hand hygiene products. It is important to have all supplies ready before starting.

How long can a resident stay on a bedpan?

A resident should not be left on a bedpan for an extended period. Prolonged use can cause pressure on the skin, increasing the risk of skin breakdown and pressure ulcers. The bedpan should be removed as soon as the resident is finished.

Should the head of the bed be raised when a resident is on a bedpan?

Yes, after the bedpan is correctly placed and the resident is safely positioned on it, raise the head of the bed to a semi-sitting position (30-45 degrees). This helps the resident assume a more natural position for elimination.

What are the key differences between a standard bedpan and a fracture bedpan?

A standard bedpan is typically round with higher sides and is used for more mobile residents. A fracture bedpan is shallower and has a tapered end, making it easier to slide under a resident with limited mobility or a hip fracture, reducing movement and discomfort.

How do I prevent spills when removing the bedpan?

When removing the bedpan, hold it firmly in place with one hand while gently rolling the resident off it with the other. Once removed, immediately place a towel over the top to prevent spillage and contain odors.