Which way does a bedpan go under a person? A detailed guide for caregivers

According to the CDC, over 1 in 5 adults aged 65 and over need assistance with personal care tasks like using the toilet. Knowing exactly which way does a bedpan go under a person is a fundamental skill that ensures a person’s comfort, hygiene, and dignity during a vulnerable moment.

Quick Summary

For standard bedpans, position the wide, contoured end under the person's buttocks and the narrow, flat end toward their feet to mimic a toilet seat. Use different techniques based on the person's mobility to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Key Points

• Orientation for Standard Bedpan: Place the wide, contoured end under the buttocks, with the narrow, flat end facing the person's feet.

• Two Placement Methods: Use the hip-lifting method for those who can assist, and the side-rolling method for those who cannot.

• Prioritize Privacy: Always ensure the person's privacy and dignity by closing curtains or doors and communicating clearly.

• Safety First: Ensure the bed is raised to a comfortable working height for the caregiver and that the bedpan is secure before and after use to prevent spills.

• Preventing Complications: Never leave a person on a bedpan for too long to avoid skin breakdown and pressure sores.

• Proper Removal: Lower the head of the bed before removing the bedpan to prevent spillage and ensure a smooth transition.

Understanding the Types of Bedpans

Not all bedpans are created equal. The two main types you will encounter are the standard bedpan and the fracture bedpan. Proper placement depends on which one you are using.

Standard Bedpan

The standard bedpan is the most common type. It features a wide, rounded end and a narrower, flatter end. This design is intended to contour to the buttocks, much like a toilet seat. The wide end provides stability and a collection area, while the narrow end slides under the thighs. This is the type most people refer to when they ask, “Which way does a bedpan go under a person?”

Fracture Bedpan

The fracture bedpan is designed for individuals with limited mobility, hip fractures, or those who cannot elevate their hips significantly. It is much flatter and has a tapered, low profile edge, making it easier to slide underneath a person without excessive lifting. The handle is typically located at the flat end.

Preparing for Bedpan Placement

Proper preparation is key to ensuring both your safety and the person's comfort.

1. Gather Supplies: Before you begin, collect all necessary items: a clean bedpan, protective pads (chux), toilet paper, wet wipes or a washcloth, a basin of warm water with soap if needed, and clean gloves.
2. Ensure Privacy: Pull the curtains or close the door. This simple step is critical for maintaining the person's dignity. Communicate what you are doing clearly and calmly.
3. Perform Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly and put on a fresh pair of gloves. This protects both you and the person from the spread of germs.
4. Position the Bed: Raise the bed to a comfortable working height to prevent back strain. Lower the head of the bed temporarily to a flat or low position before placing the bedpan.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Place a Bedpan

The method for placing the bedpan depends on the person's ability to assist.

Method 1: For a Person Who Can Assist by Lifting Hips

This is the most straightforward method and requires the least amount of physical exertion from the caregiver.

1. Prepare the Person: Ask the person to bend their knees with their feet flat on the bed.
2. Position the Bedpan: Place the protective pad under their buttocks. With the wide, contoured end of the standard bedpan facing the person's head, position it against their buttocks.
3. Assist with Lifting: Ask the person to lift their hips by pushing down with their feet. If they need help, gently place one hand under their lower back to assist with the lift.
4. Slide the Bedpan: Slide the bedpan under their hips until it is correctly positioned. The contoured part should cradle their buttocks comfortably.
5. Adjust Positioning: Raise the head of the bed to a semi-sitting position (at least 30 degrees) to simulate a normal toilet posture. Ensure the bedpan is secure.
6. Provide for Privacy: Give the person toilet paper and the call light. Leave the room to give them privacy, but stay within earshot.

Method 2: For a Person Who Cannot Assist or is Immobile

For individuals unable to lift their hips, the side-rolling method is necessary.

1. Position the Person: With the person lying on their back, raise the side rail on the opposite side of the bed for safety. Cross their arms over their chest and their legs at the ankles.
2. Roll the Person: Gently roll the person onto their side, away from you, and place the protective pad. A pillow can be used to provide support and keep them stable on their side.
3. Place the Bedpan: With the person on their side, place the bedpan firmly against their buttocks. The wide, contoured end should be facing the person's head. You may need to press it slightly into the mattress to ensure a snug fit.
4. Roll Back onto the Bedpan: Hold the bedpan securely in place with one hand, and with your other hand on their hip and shoulder, gently roll the person back onto their back and onto the bedpan.
5. Adjust and Provide Privacy: Ensure the bedpan is centered and raise the head of the bed. Provide the necessary supplies and privacy.

Correct Bedpan Orientation: A Visual Guide

To clarify which way does a bedpan go under a person, consider the following orientation:

Feature	Standard Bedpan Orientation	Fracture Bedpan Orientation
Wide, Contoured End	Placed under the person's buttocks and hips	Not applicable; fracture pans are flat with a handle
Narrow, Flat End	Points toward the person's feet	Tapered edge slides under the person's hips, handle points away
Handle	Typically on the narrow end, points toward feet	Handle is on the opposite side of the tapered edge

Removing the Bedpan Safely

When the person is finished, follow these steps for removal:

1. Lower the Head of the Bed: Bring the person back to a flat or low position. This is essential for preventing spills.
2. Remove the Bedpan: Ask the person to bend their knees and lift their hips, or use the side-rolling technique in reverse. Place one hand firmly on the bedpan to stabilize it and prevent spillage. With your other hand, help guide the person's hips.
3. Clean the Person: Clean the person's perineal area thoroughly, wiping from front to back to prevent infections. Pat the area dry. Remove the protective pad.
4. Return to Comfort: Help the person into a comfortable position, replace the covers, and ensure the call light is within reach.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forcing the Bedpan: Never force the bedpan under a person. If you meet resistance, re-evaluate the position or use the side-rolling method.
• Leaving the Bedpan Too Long: Extended time on a bedpan can cause pressure injuries and skin breakdown. Remove the bedpan promptly once the person has finished.
• Ignoring Privacy: Failing to provide privacy can cause significant emotional distress and humiliation.
• Forgetting Hand Hygiene: Caregivers must practice strict hand hygiene before and after handling the bedpan to prevent infection.

For more detailed protocols on patient care and hygiene, you can refer to authoritative sources like the National Center for Biotechnology Information's guide on Nursing Bedpan Management.

Conclusion

Mastering the correct technique for bedpan placement is a cornerstone of compassionate and effective caregiving. By understanding the different types of bedpans, following proper placement procedures, and being mindful of the person's comfort and dignity, you can make this challenging task significantly easier and safer for everyone involved. Regular practice and communication with the person you are caring for will lead to a more confident and respectful caregiving experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which side of the bedpan goes under the person?

For a standard bedpan, the wide, rounded end is placed under the person's buttocks. The narrow, flat end points toward the feet.

What is the best technique for placing a bedpan for an immobile person?

The side-rolling technique is best for immobile individuals. Roll the person onto their side, place the bedpan firmly against their buttocks, and then gently roll them back onto their back and onto the pan.

How do you position a fracture bedpan?

A fracture bedpan is flatter and has a tapered end. The tapered end is designed to slide under the person's hips with minimal lifting, with the handle typically pointing away from the person.

How long can you leave someone on a bedpan?

A person should not be left on a bedpan for longer than necessary. Prolonged use can lead to discomfort, pressure sores, and skin breakdown. Remove the bedpan as soon as they are finished.

How do you prevent spills when removing a bedpan?

To prevent spills, always lower the head of the bed to a flat or low position before removing the bedpan. Hold the bedpan securely and move slowly and deliberately.

Is it better to have the person lift their hips or roll them to place the bedpan?

If the person can safely and comfortably lift their hips, that is the most direct method. If they have mobility limitations or pain, rolling them to the side is safer and more comfortable.

What are some tips for making bedpan use more comfortable?

Provide ample privacy, use warm water and soap for cleaning, and consider using a sprinkle of powder on the rim of the bedpan (if not contraindicated) to prevent skin adherence. Raising the head of the bed after placement helps mimic a natural toileting position.