How to Put a Pad on an Elderly Person with Dignity and Care

Statistics show that more than half of all seniors living at home experience some form of incontinence. Mastering the skill of how to put a pad on an elderly person properly is a fundamental aspect of compassionate caregiving, ensuring both hygiene and the preservation of a senior's dignity.

Quick Summary

This guide outlines the critical steps for preparing supplies, positioning the individual comfortably, and using gentle techniques to ensure a proper and secure fit for an incontinence pad, promoting comfort and preventing leaks.

Key Points

• Proper Preparation: Gather all supplies, including gloves, pads, wipes, and barrier cream, before starting to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

• Gentle Positioning: For bedridden individuals, use a gentle side-rolling technique to safely remove the old pad and position the new one, avoiding injury.

• Thorough Cleaning: Always clean from front to back to prevent infection, and pay close attention to drying the skin completely before applying a new pad.

• Check for Correct Fit: Ensure the pad is the right size and positioned correctly, with activated leak guards and snug (but not tight) tabs to prevent leaks.

• Protect Skin Health: Regularly apply barrier cream and inspect the skin daily for any signs of irritation or pressure sores, changing pads frequently.

• Use Underpads for Protection: Disposable underpads or 'chux' should be used under bedridden seniors to protect bedding from accidental leaks and simplify cleanup.

Preparing for a Smooth and Respectful Change

Before beginning, it is essential to gather all necessary supplies and prepare the environment. This reduces stress for both the caregiver and the senior, minimizing the time spent on the task and upholding the individual’s dignity.

Supplies Checklist

• Incontinence Pads/Briefs: Ensure you have the correct type and size for the senior's needs and mobility level.
• Disposable Underpads (Chux): These protect the bed or chair from leaks.
• Protective Gloves: Disposable gloves are a must for hygiene.
• Cleansing Wipes or Warm Washcloths: Use gentle, non-irritating wipes or cloths for cleaning.
• Barrier Cream: Protects the skin from moisture and irritation.
• Plastic Trash Bag: Keep this within easy reach for discreet disposal.
• Clean Linens: Have fresh sheets or a change of clothing nearby in case of accidents.

Create a Respectful Environment

1. Maintain Privacy: Close doors and curtains to ensure privacy.
2. Communicate Clearly: Inform the senior what you are doing before you begin, explaining each step respectfully.
3. Ensure Comfort: Adjust the room temperature and use a comfortable tone of voice throughout the process.

Step-by-Step Guide for a Bedridden Senior

Changing a pad for a person who is not mobile requires a specific technique to prevent injury and ensure thorough cleaning.

1. Position and Protect: Lay the senior on their back and place a disposable underpad underneath them. Unlock the side tabs of the soiled brief.
2. The Gentle Roll: Gently roll the senior onto their side, facing away from you, by supporting their hips and shoulder. Keep the soiled pad tucked in as you roll them to contain mess.
3. Clean Thoroughly: Using a fresh cleansing wipe, clean the genital area and buttocks completely, wiping from front to back to prevent infection. Pay special attention to all skin folds.
4. Remove and Dispose: Roll the soiled pad inward on itself and place it directly into the trash bag. Dispose of the used wipes in the pad before sealing the bag.
5. Apply Skin Protection: Gently pat the skin dry and apply a thin layer of barrier cream to prevent moisture irritation.
6. Place the New Pad: With the senior still on their side, place the clean pad underneath them, tucking one side snugly against their back.
7. Roll Back and Secure: Gently roll the senior back onto their back and center the pad. Pull the front panel up between their legs and secure the tabs. For a snug fit that prevents leaks, fasten the bottom tabs at a slight upward angle and the top tabs at a slight downward angle.

Step-by-Step Guide for a Mobile Senior

For seniors who can stand or assist with the process, pull-up style pads or briefs offer more independence and a simpler changing process.

1. Prepare the Senior: Ask them to stand while holding onto a stable surface, or have them sit on the edge of the bed or a sturdy chair.
2. Remove the Old Pad: If using pull-ups, tear the side seams and roll the garment down. If using briefs with tabs, unfasten them and remove.
3. Clean While Standing: Clean the perineal and buttock areas thoroughly with cleansing wipes or a washcloth. It can be helpful to have the senior lift one leg at a time to reach all areas.
4. Apply the New Pad: Step the senior into the new pull-up or position the new brief. Pull the garment up securely.

Comparison of Incontinence Pad Types

Understanding the options available helps you choose the best product for the senior's specific needs.

Feature	Tab-Style Briefs	Pull-Up Underwear	Booster Pads	Bed Pads (Underpads)
Mobility Level	Best for bedridden or limited mobility	Best for mobile or semi-mobile	All levels (used with briefs)	All levels (protects surfaces)
Absorbency	High to maximum; ideal for heavy leakage	Moderate to heavy, depending on brand	Adds extra absorbency to another pad	Protects against leaks, not primary absorbency
Ease of Changing	Relatively easy for caregivers on bedridden individuals	Easy for self-changing; tear-away sides simplify removal	Simple to add and change	Easy to place and remove from surfaces
Leak Protection	Excellent with proper fit and tape positioning	Good for active individuals; depends heavily on fit	Improves leak protection of main pad	Final defense for furniture and linens

Addressing Common Issues: Preventing Leaks and Protecting Skin

Two of the most common challenges in incontinence care are preventing leaks and maintaining healthy skin.

Preventing Leaks

• Ensure Correct Sizing: A pad that is too large or too small will lead to leaks. Measure the senior's waist and hips for the most accurate fit.
• Position Correctly: Fold the pad lengthwise before application to activate the side leak guards.
• Choose the Right Absorbency: Use pads designed for nighttime or heavy absorbency if leaks are a recurring problem.
• Layer for Extra Protection: For heavy incontinence, consider using a booster pad inside the main brief or placing a washable underpad under the senior while they are sitting or sleeping.

Maintaining Skin Health

• Frequent Changes: Change soiled pads as soon as possible to prevent moisture buildup, which can cause skin breakdown and sores.
• Thorough Cleaning: Always clean the skin completely after a pad change, removing all residue.
• Air Dry Skin: Allow the skin to air dry completely before applying a new pad.
• Use Barrier Cream: Barrier creams, often containing zinc oxide or petroleum jelly, create a protective layer against moisture.
• Inspect Skin Daily: Regularly check for signs of redness, rash, or irritation, especially in skin folds. For additional tips on incontinence products and skin care, MedlinePlus offers reliable guidance.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Comfort and Respect

Putting a pad on an elderly person is a task that requires patience, respect, and proper technique. By preparing ahead, using gentle rolling methods for bedridden individuals, and being mindful of skin health, caregivers can ensure comfort, maintain dignity, and provide the highest quality of care. Understanding the different types of products available allows for a tailored approach that best fits the senior's lifestyle and needs, making a difficult situation more manageable for everyone involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should an elderly person's pad be changed?

Pads should be checked frequently and changed as soon as they are soiled or wet. For bedridden individuals, a routine check every 2-4 hours is recommended to prevent skin irritation.

What is the best way to clean the skin during a pad change?

Use mild, pH-balanced wipes or a warm, damp washcloth to gently clean the area. Always wipe from front to back and ensure the skin is completely dry before putting on a new pad.

How can I prevent leaks from an incontinence pad?

To prevent leaks, ensure you have the correct pad size and absorbency level. Proper positioning and activating the anti-leak cuffs by folding the pad lengthwise can also significantly improve performance.

When should I use a barrier cream?

Apply a thin layer of barrier cream after cleaning and drying the skin, especially in areas prone to irritation. It creates a protective moisture barrier that is crucial for maintaining skin health.

What is the difference between a brief and a pull-up for seniors?

Briefs have adjustable tabs and are ideal for bedridden or less mobile seniors as they can be changed without standing. Pull-ups are worn like underwear and are suitable for more mobile individuals who can assist with changes.

How do I make the changing process less embarrassing for my loved one?

Always prioritize dignity and privacy. Communicate clearly and respectfully, move gently, and ensure the room is private and comfortable. Treat the task with a professional and compassionate attitude.

What should I do if I notice a skin rash or pressure sore?

If you notice any redness, broken skin, or sores, apply a barrier cream, ensure the area is kept clean and dry, and consult a healthcare provider. Adjusting the pad size or changing the frequency may be necessary.