How do you assist with a bedpan?

Proper technique when assisting a bedbound individual with a bedpan is critical for their dignity and comfort, according to healthcare professionals. This guide provides authoritative, step-by-step instructions on how do you assist with a bedpan, ensuring both the patient and caregiver feel confident and prepared throughout the process.

Quick Summary

Assisting with a bedpan involves proper preparation of both the equipment and patient, gentle positioning, ensuring privacy, and following strict hygiene protocols for removal and cleaning. This step-by-step approach prioritizes the comfort, safety, and dignity of the individual receiving care, making the experience as respectful as possible.

Key Points

• Prepare all supplies beforehand: Gather gloves, bedpans, wipes, and protective pads before starting to ensure a smooth process.

• Communicate with the patient: Always explain each step of the process to the patient to maintain their dignity and trust.

• Position correctly: Use either the lifting method for mobile patients or the rolling method for immobile patients to place the bedpan safely.

• Prioritize privacy: Provide ample privacy during bedpan use, as it is a vulnerable and potentially embarrassing experience for the patient.

• Remove carefully and clean thoroughly: Hold the bedpan level during removal to prevent spills and clean both the patient and the bedpan immediately after use to maintain hygiene.

• Consider the bedpan type: For patients with hip injuries, a fracture bedpan is flatter and more comfortable for placement than a standard bedpan.

Preparing to Assist with a Bedpan

Before beginning, it's crucial to gather all necessary supplies and ensure the patient is ready. Being organized helps the process run smoothly and efficiently, reducing discomfort for the patient.

Essential Supplies Checklist

• Disposable gloves (2 pairs are recommended)
• Bedpan (standard or fracture, depending on patient needs)
• Waterproof underpad or chucks
• Toilet paper and/or disposable wet wipes
• Basin with warm water and soap for hand hygiene
• Towel or washcloth
• Bedpan cover or small blanket for modesty
• Hand sanitizer

Communicating with the Patient

Always explain what you are going to do before you start. This respects the patient's autonomy and helps them feel more comfortable. Ensure privacy by closing the door or pulling curtains. Keep conversation respectful and calming.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Placement

Once prepared, follow these steps to place the bedpan correctly.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly and put on the first pair of disposable gloves.
2. Ensure safety by raising the bed to a comfortable working height and locking the wheels. Lower the head of the bed until the patient is in a flat, supine position (unless contraindicated).
3. Position the underpad by gently rolling the patient to one side. Place the underpad on the bed to protect the linens, then roll the patient back onto their back.
4. Place the bedpan. Depending on the patient's mobility, you have two options:
   • For mobile patients: Ask the patient to bend their knees and push with their heels to raise their hips. Slide the bedpan under their hips with the wider end towards their head. Provide support for their back with one hand if needed.
   • For immobile patients: Gently roll the patient onto their side, away from you. With one hand, position the bedpan firmly against their buttocks. Using your other arm, help roll the patient back onto their back, centering them on the bedpan.
5. Raise the head of the bed to a semi-Fowler's position (30-45 degrees) to simulate a sitting posture. This makes it easier for them to void.
6. Provide privacy and comfort. Cover the patient with a sheet or blanket and provide toilet paper and the call light within easy reach. Leave the room unless the patient is at risk of falling.

Safe Removal and Clean-up

Prompt removal and proper cleaning are essential for hygiene and patient dignity.

1. Return to the room after the patient uses the call light or after an appropriate amount of time. Knock and announce your return. Put on a second pair of gloves.
2. Prepare for removal. Lower the head of the bed to flatten the patient's position. Ask them to bend their knees and lift their hips, or prepare to roll them if they are immobile.
3. Remove the bedpan. Hold the bedpan securely with one hand to prevent spills while they lift or roll. Carefully place the bedpan on a stable, flat surface, such as a paper-towel-covered chair.
4. Provide perineal care. Assist the patient with wiping, always wiping from front to back to prevent infection. Use wet wipes for thorough cleaning, and then pat the area dry.
5. Remove the underpad. Roll the patient to one side and remove the soiled pad. Dispose of it properly.
6. Ensure patient comfort. Help the patient into a comfortable position, replace the linens, and ensure the call light is near.
7. Empty and clean the bedpan. Carry the bedpan to the bathroom, cover it, and dispose of the contents in the toilet. Rinse it thoroughly with cold water and clean with disinfectant. Always clean the bedpan immediately after use. Empty any graduated cylinders if output needs to be measured.
8. Final steps. Take off your gloves and wash your hands. Return to the patient to ensure they are comfortable and have everything they need.

Bedpan Comparison: Standard vs. Fracture Pan

Choosing the right bedpan type is important for patient comfort, especially for those with hip injuries or other mobility issues. A standard bedpan is deeper and more contoured, while a fracture bedpan is flatter and designed for easier placement.

Feature	Standard Bedpan	Fracture Bedpan
Shape	Curved, with deeper bowl	Flatter, wedge-shaped
Depth	Deeper well for waste	Shallow well
Placement	Can be more difficult to position for immobile patients	Easier to slide under patients with limited mobility or hip/back injuries
Comfort	Can be less comfortable for those with limited mobility	Generally more comfortable for patients with limited range of motion
Uses	General-purpose for bedbound patients	Specifically for patients with hip fractures, trauma, or spinal issues

Managing Common Challenges

• Spills: Work slowly and deliberately. Use protective underpads to catch any potential spills. When removing the bedpan, hold it level and steady.
• Embarrassment: Acknowledge the patient's feelings and maintain their privacy. Offer a cover for modesty. A calm, professional demeanor helps normalize the situation.
• Positioning difficulties: Never force the bedpan. If rolling is too painful, consider using a fracture pan, or seek assistance from another caregiver if necessary.
• Skin irritation: Ensure the patient is thoroughly cleaned and dried after each use. Check for redness or sores and report any concerns to a healthcare provider. A thin layer of protective cream may be advised.

The Importance of Dignity and Respect

Providing compassionate care is about more than just physical assistance; it's also about preserving the patient's dignity. Bedpan use can be an intimate and vulnerable experience. Your attitude and approach make a significant difference. By communicating clearly, ensuring privacy, and being gentle, you help maintain a sense of normalcy and respect. This compassionate care fosters a stronger, more trusting relationship between the caregiver and the patient, contributing positively to the patient's overall well-being. For more detailed information on senior care and aging, you can explore resources like the National Institute on Aging.

Conclusion

Assisting with a bedpan is a fundamental aspect of caregiving that requires sensitivity, skill, and patience. Following a structured procedure, ensuring patient privacy, and understanding the nuances of different situations will lead to a more comfortable and dignified experience for the patient. With the right preparation and compassionate approach, caregivers can confidently provide this essential support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you assist with a bedpan for a person who cannot lift their hips?

For an immobile patient, gently roll them onto their side, away from you. Place the bedpan firmly against their buttocks, and then help them roll back onto their back and center them onto the pan. Never force the bedpan under them, as this can cause injury.

Which way does a bedpan go?

When assisting a patient onto a standard bedpan, the wider, more contoured end should be positioned toward the patient's head, and the narrower, flatter end should face their feet.

How do you position someone for a bedpan?

Position the patient either by having them lift their hips (if mobile) while you slide the pan underneath, or by rolling them onto their side to place the pan against their buttocks before gently rolling them back onto it. Raise the head of the bed to a semi-sitting position to help with voiding.

How long should a person be left on a bedpan?

A person should only be left on a bedpan for as long as necessary to urinate or have a bowel movement, typically no more than 5-10 minutes. Leaving them for too long can increase the risk of skin breakdown and pressure sores.

How do you clean a bedpan after use?

After emptying the contents into the toilet, rinse the bedpan with cold water first to prevent odors. Wash with hot water and disinfectant soap, and then dry it thoroughly. Many facilities use specialized washing equipment, but a simple scrub brush can be used for home care.

What is the difference between a standard and fracture bedpan?

A standard bedpan is deeper and more contoured, while a fracture bedpan is flatter and designed for easier placement under patients with hip fractures or limited mobility. The low profile of the fracture bedpan reduces the need for the patient to lift their hips significantly.

What if the patient is embarrassed about using a bedpan?

It is important to acknowledge their feelings and maintain a calm, professional demeanor. Ensure maximum privacy by closing doors and curtains, and offer a blanket for modesty. Reassure them that this is a routine procedure and that their dignity is a top priority.