How do you use a bedside commode? A Comprehensive Safety Guide

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bathroom falls are a significant risk for older adults, making safe toileting a critical concern. Knowing exactly how do you use a bedside commode properly can help reduce this risk, empowering seniors and caregivers alike with the confidence needed for secure at-home care.

Quick Summary

Using a bedside commode requires careful preparation, including adjusting the height and locking wheels, followed by safe transfer techniques using the armrests for support. Regular cleaning after each use is essential for hygiene, and the right technique ensures both safety and dignity for the user during this sensitive task.

Key Points

• Pre-Use Checklist: Always ensure the commode's height is adjusted correctly and wheels are locked before each use to guarantee stability.

• Safe Transfers: Use both armrests when sitting or standing, avoiding single-sided pressure that could cause the commode to tip over.

• Maintain Hygiene: Empty and rinse the commode bucket immediately after each use and perform a weekly deep clean of the entire unit.

• Promote Dignity: Maintain the user's privacy and encourage as much independence as is safely possible during toileting.

• Select the Right Commode: Choose a commode type based on the user's specific mobility needs, considering options like standard, 3-in-1, or drop-arm models.

• Gather Supplies: Keep all necessary supplies, including gloves, wipes, and liners, readily accessible for smooth and hygienic use.

Preparing the Commode for Safe Use

Before anyone uses the bedside commode, proper setup is critical to ensure stability and safety. A poorly assembled or positioned commode is a fall risk waiting to happen.

Supplies Needed

• Protective, disposable gloves
• Commode liners (optional, but highly recommended for easier cleanup)
• Toilet paper or moist wipes
• Disinfectant cleaner
• Cloth for cleaning and drying
• Air deodorizer or freshener

Commode Setup Checklist

1. Read the Manufacturer's Instructions: Always follow the specific assembly and usage instructions provided with your model. This is especially important for adjustable-height or multi-function commodes.
2. Adjust the Height: The commode's height should be adjusted so the user's feet are flat on the floor and their knees are level with their hips. This posture is ergonomic and makes standing easier. Push the pin on each leg to adjust, ensuring all four legs are set to the same height and the pin is securely locked in place.
3. Position the Commode: Place the commode on a flat, level surface next to the bed or chair. For added security, position it against a solid wall. Ensure the path to the commode is clear of rugs, cords, or any other obstacles.
4. Lock the Wheels: If your commode has wheels, make sure they are firmly locked before every use to prevent any movement while transferring on or off.
5. Prepare the Bucket: Insert the clean collection bucket and, if using, a commode liner. For odor control and easier cleaning, you can place a small amount of water with a deodorizing tablet or a splash of disinfectant into the bucket beforehand.

Step-by-Step Guide for Safe Use

Helping someone use a bedside commode can be a sensitive situation. A calm, reassuring approach is key to preserving the user's dignity.

Assistance for the User

1. Wash Your Hands: Put on your protective gloves before assisting.
2. Help with the Transfer: Guide the user to the edge of their bed or chair. Have them lean forward, and assist them in standing. Turn slowly, so the user is backing up toward the commode. Instruct them to reach back for both commode armrests simultaneously.
3. Safely Seating the User: Guide the user to lower themselves slowly onto the center of the commode seat. They should not grab just one armrest, as this can cause the commode to tip.
4. Allow Privacy: If the user can be left alone safely, give them privacy. Ensure a call button is within easy reach.
5. Assist with Cleaning: When the user is finished, assist with wiping if needed. Always wipe women from front to back to prevent urinary tract infections. Use disposable wipes for a more thorough clean.
6. Transfer Back: Reverse the process to help the user stand and return to bed. Ensure they are safely and comfortably situated before moving on.

Maintaining Hygiene and Odor Control

Proper cleaning is non-negotiable for health and comfort. A well-maintained commode is a sign of good care.

Daily Cleaning Routine

• Empty Promptly: The bucket should be emptied into the toilet after each use. Flush the toilet with the contents, then flush again to wash away any residue.
• Rinse the Bucket: Rinse the bucket thoroughly with clean water, emptying the rinse water into the toilet.
• Disinfect: Use a dedicated, plastic-safe disinfectant to wash the bucket. Do not use harsh toilet bowl cleaners. Rinse the bucket again and dry it completely before placing it back.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

At least once a week, or more often if soiled, perform a deep clean of the entire commode unit. This involves wiping down the seat, backrest, armrests, and frame with a disinfectant spray or wipe.

Comparison of Commode Types

Selecting the right commode depends on the user's needs. Here is a comparison of common types:

Feature	Standard Bedside Commode	3-in-1 Commode	Drop-Arm Commode
Primary Use	At the bedside for convenient toileting.	Versatile: Bedside, over-the-toilet, and shower use.	Primarily bedside, easier for side transfers.
Key Benefit	Simple, portable, and straightforward.	Multi-functional, saves space and money.	Allows users to transfer from a wheelchair or bed with less effort.
Mobility Level	Suitable for users who can stand and sit with some assistance.	Good for a range of mobility levels due to versatility.	Ideal for users with very limited upper body strength or for side transfers.
Cleaning	Easy to clean, but requires manual emptying.	Bucket must be removed for over-the-toilet use.	Cleaning is similar to standard models.
Price	Generally the most affordable option.	Mid-range, offering more features for the cost.	Often more expensive due to specialized features.

Best Practices for Caregivers and Users

• Promote Independence: Encourage the user to do as much as they can safely. This preserves their dignity and maintains their muscle strength.
• Establish a Routine: Consistent timing can prevent accidents and help manage incontinence.
• Ensure Proper Footwear: The user should wear non-slip shoes or slippers to reduce the risk of falls during transfers.
• Communicate Clearly: Discuss the process beforehand to ensure the user feels comfortable and knows what to expect.
• Maintain Dignity: Treat the user with respect and maintain privacy. Use a calm and empathetic tone.

When to Contact a Healthcare Professional

While a bedside commode is a useful tool, it's not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should contact a healthcare provider if you notice any new or worsening mobility issues, increased falls, or if the user shows signs of skin irritation or pressure sores. For further reading and trusted medical information, consult a reliable health organization like the National Institute on Aging. They offer excellent resources on senior safety and mobility.

Conclusion

Mastering how do you use a bedside commode is an essential skill for both users and caregivers. By following proper setup procedures, practicing safe transfer techniques, and maintaining a high standard of hygiene, you can significantly improve the user's quality of life. The right approach not only minimizes risks but also fosters a sense of independence and dignity, making home care a safer and more comfortable experience for everyone involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct height for a bedside commode?

The commode's seat height should be adjusted so the user's feet are flat on the floor and their knees are bent at a 90-degree angle. This ensures stability and makes it easier to stand.

How often should I clean the commode?

The bucket should be emptied and rinsed after every use. A more thorough cleaning of the entire commode, including the frame and seat, should be done at least once a week or immediately if soiled.

Are commode liners necessary?

Commode liners are not strictly necessary but are highly recommended. They make waste disposal much easier and more hygienic, reducing the need for constant scrubbing of the bucket.

How do you use a bedside commode with a walker?

Position the commode behind the user. Using the walker for support, have them back up until the backs of their legs touch the commode. Instruct them to reach for the commode's armrests to lower themselves, not the walker.

Can a bedside commode be used in the shower?

Some models are designed for multi-purpose use, including as a shower chair. These are typically called '3-in-1' commodes. Always check the manufacturer's guidelines to confirm if your model is safe for shower use.

How do I deal with odors from the commode?

Prevent odors by emptying and cleaning the commode promptly. Using commode liners with absorbent pads, adding a small amount of water and disinfectant to the bucket, and placing an air freshener nearby can also help.

What is the proper way to assist someone with wiping?

Always wear protective gloves. For females, wipe from front to back to prevent infections. Use moistened wipes for a more thorough cleaning and to minimize skin irritation.

Where is the best location to place the bedside commode?

The commode should be placed in a convenient, well-lit location with a clear path. Placing it against a solid wall adds stability and reduces the risk of tipping.