How to properly put a patient on a bedpan? A guide for safe and comfortable care.

According to StatPearls, proper bedpan management is a key skill for caregivers, ensuring patient dignity and preventing complications like skin breakdown. Understanding how to properly put a patient on a bedpan is therefore a fundamental aspect of safe and compassionate care, especially for bedridden individuals.

Quick Summary

The correct method involves careful preparation of supplies, ensuring patient privacy, and a systematic process of positioning the patient by rolling them onto their side. Proper technique minimizes discomfort, preserves dignity, and prevents spillage. Following usage, it is essential to perform thorough hygiene and safe removal of the bedpan to maintain a clean environment.

Key Points

• Preparation is key: Gather all necessary supplies, including gloves, bedpan, and a protective pad, before starting to prevent delays and spills.

• Provide privacy: Always ensure the patient's privacy by closing doors and curtains, using a blanket to cover them, and maintaining a respectful demeanor.

• Position correctly: Use the rolling technique to place the bedpan, avoiding unnecessary lifting and reducing discomfort for the patient.

• Raise the head of the bed: After placement, elevate the patient's head to a semi-sitting position to promote a more natural and effective process of elimination.

• Prioritize hygiene and safety: Wash hands, wear gloves, and use a protective pad. After use, perform thorough perineal care and check the skin to prevent irritation and pressure sores.

• Use a fracture bedpan for limited mobility: For patients with hip fractures or difficulty lifting, a fracture bedpan's tapered design allows for easier, less painful placement.

Preparation is Key: Gathering Your Supplies

Before beginning, gather all necessary equipment to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Having everything within reach minimizes the time the patient is uncomfortable and reduces the risk of spills. Here is a checklist of what you will need:

• Bedpan: Choose between a standard or a fracture bedpan based on the patient's mobility. Fracture bedpans have a lower profile and are ideal for individuals with limited hip movement.
• Disposable Gloves: Wear gloves throughout the process to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of germs.
• Absorbent Pad: A protective pad, also known as a 'Chux' pad, should be placed under the patient to protect the bed linens from spills.
• Toilet Paper or Wipes: Have these ready for post-procedure cleaning.
• Washcloth and Towel: A damp washcloth and a dry towel can be used for extra cleaning and comfort.
• Privacy Blanket or Sheet: Use an extra sheet to cover the patient's lower body for privacy and warmth.
• Call Light: Ensure the call light is within the patient's easy reach when you leave the room.
• Water (optional): Some caregivers find that adding a small amount of warm water to the bottom of the bedpan before use can help with cleanup and reduce odor.

Step-by-Step Bedpan Placement

This procedure outlines the safest and most dignified way to place a bedpan, accommodating patients with varying levels of mobility. Always explain each step to the patient to manage expectations and provide reassurance.

1. Introduce and Explain: Greet the patient and explain exactly what you are going to do. This builds trust and cooperation.
2. Provide Privacy and Ensure Safety: Close the door and pull the privacy curtain. Lock the wheels of the bed to prevent it from moving.
3. Adjust Bed Height: Raise the bed to a comfortable working height to prevent back strain for yourself. Lower the head of the bed to a flat or near-flat position.
4. Position the Patient and Pad: Ask the patient to turn toward you, or gently assist them in rolling onto their side. With the patient on their side, place the absorbent pad underneath them, covering the area from their hips to their knees. Tuck the pad in securely.
5. Place the Bedpan: Place the bedpan against the patient's buttocks. For a standard bedpan, the wider, contoured end goes toward the patient's head. For a fracture pan, the flatter, tapered end slides more easily under the hips. For the patient who can assist by lifting their hips, simply have them do so, and slide the bedpan into place.
6. Roll Onto the Bedpan: Help the patient roll back onto their back, carefully positioning them in the middle of the bedpan. Ensure the bedpan is centered to prevent spillage.
7. Elevate and Provide Supplies: Raise the head of the bed to a semi-Fowler's position (30-45 degrees). This position is more natural for elimination. Provide the patient with toilet paper and place the call light within their reach. Exit the room to allow for privacy.

Safe Removal and Post-Procedure Care

Once the patient is finished, they will use the call light to signal you. Re-enter the room, ensuring you have a clean pair of gloves on.

1. Gather Supplies and Don Gloves: Have a towel or paper towel, a fresh pair of gloves, and any cleaning supplies ready. Put on your gloves.
2. Lower the Bed: Slowly and gently lower the head of the bed back down to a flat position. This reduces the risk of back strain during removal.
3. Remove the Bedpan: Assist the patient in rolling onto their side, holding the bedpan firmly against their hips to prevent spillage. Slide the bedpan out from underneath them.
4. Perform Perineal Hygiene: Using toilet paper or wipes, clean the patient's perineal area, wiping from front to back to prevent infection. Use a damp washcloth and towel if necessary. Assess the patient's skin for any signs of redness or irritation.
5. Clean Up: Take the bedpan to the toilet, emptying its contents. Note any unusual observations before flushing. Rinse the bedpan with cold water (to prevent protein coagulation), wash with soap and water, and dry it with a paper towel. The bedpan can then be sanitized and stored.
6. Patient Comfort: Help the patient return to a comfortable position. Place clean linens and blankets as needed. Place the call light and any personal items within reach.

Comparison of Bedpan Types

Understanding the differences between bedpan types can help you choose the best option for your patient's specific needs.

Feature	Standard Bedpan	Fracture Bedpan
Design	Resembles a toilet seat with a high rim.	Features a flat, tapered front and a lower rim.
Patient Mobility	Requires the patient to be able to lift their hips.	Ideal for patients with limited hip movement or fractures.
Placement Ease	Can be more challenging to slide under a non-assisting patient.	Slides more easily and reduces strain on the caregiver and patient.
Risk of Spillage	Higher risk if not properly centered.	Reduced risk due to the design that cups the buttocks.

Essential Tips for Patient Comfort and Dignity

Beyond the procedural steps, focusing on the patient's experience is vital. Bedpan use can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable experience, so the caregiver's approach is critical.

• Communicate Constantly: Talk to the patient throughout the process. Announce your actions before you do them to avoid startling them.
• Maintain Dignity: Keep the patient covered as much as possible with a blanket or sheet. This simple act of modesty can make a significant difference.
• Work at Your Level: Adjusting the bed height is crucial for your own safety and comfort. It prevents back injuries, allowing you to focus on the patient.
• Check for Skin Irritation: After each use, check the patient's skin for redness or pressure points. Prolonged contact with moisture can lead to skin breakdown and pressure sores. Ensure the area is clean and dry.
• Respond Promptly: A quick response to the patient's call light when they need a bedpan is critical for comfort and to prevent accidents.

Conclusion

Mastering how to properly put a patient on a bedpan is an essential skill for any caregiver. By following a clear, step-by-step procedure and focusing on the patient's dignity and comfort, you can ensure this routine task is performed safely and with respect. For more in-depth medical procedures and best practices, consult reliable medical sources such as Nursing Bedpan Management from StatPearls at NCBI. Adherence to these protocols not only protects the patient but also makes the caregiving process more manageable and humane for everyone involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which way does a bedpan go under the patient?

For a standard bedpan, the wider, contoured end is placed under the patient's buttocks toward their head. For a fracture bedpan, the tapered, flatter end slides under the patient's tailbone, making it easier to position for individuals with limited mobility.

How do you put a bedpan under a patient who cannot lift their hips?

If a patient cannot lift their hips, gently roll them onto their side while holding the bedpan firmly. Place the bedpan against their buttocks and help them roll back onto their back and onto the pan. You must stabilize the bedpan to prevent spills.

How do you keep a patient from sliding down on a bedpan?

To prevent sliding, ensure the head of the bed is not elevated too high and the patient's hips are correctly positioned. Using pillows for support and ensuring the bedpan is snugly in place can also help maintain their position.

How do you clean a bedpan after use?

After emptying the contents into the toilet, rinse the bedpan with cold water first to prevent protein coagulation. Then, wash it with soap and water, and dry it thoroughly with a paper towel. It can be sanitized with a disinfectant before storing.

How long should you leave a patient on a bedpan?

A patient should only be left on a bedpan long enough for elimination. Prolonged use, typically more than 10-15 minutes, should be avoided as it increases the risk of skin breakdown and pressure ulcers.

What is the best way to ensure patient comfort during bedpan use?

Ensuring patient comfort involves communicating clearly, providing privacy, warming a cold bedpan with warm water, and ensuring the bedpan is correctly positioned. Using a small amount of powder on the rim can also aid in placement and comfort.

What are the common challenges with bedpan use and how can they be solved?

Common challenges include spills, patient discomfort, and skin issues. Using proper technique, selecting the right bedpan, and ensuring timely assistance can prevent spills. Clear communication and privacy enhance comfort, while proper hygiene and skin checks help prevent skin breakdown.