Which way does a bedpan go under someone? A comprehensive caregiver's guide

According to the CDC, over 10 million older adults require assistance with daily tasks, making proper caregiving techniques essential. For bedridden patients, one vital skill is knowing which way does a bedpan go under someone to ensure comfort, dignity, and a hygienic experience.

Quick Summary

For a standard bedpan, the wider, curved end is placed under the buttocks, aligning with the patient's back. For a fracture pan, the low, flat end goes under the buttocks with the handle pointing toward the patient's feet. Positioning depends on the patient's ability to lift their hips versus needing to be rolled.

Key Points

• Standard Bedpan Placement: For a standard bedpan, the wide, curved end faces toward the patient's back.

• Fracture Bedpan Placement: For a fracture bedpan, the low, flat end is slid under the buttocks, with the handle pointing toward the patient's feet.

• Two Placement Methods: The two main techniques are assisting a patient who can lift their hips or rolling a patient who cannot.

• Ensure Comfort: Warming the bedpan and maintaining patient privacy are crucial for a better experience.

• Preventing Spills: Holding the bedpan firmly while assisting the patient on and off is key to preventing spills and mess.

• Hygienic Care: Always use gloves and ensure proper cleaning and disposal to prevent infection.

Understanding Bedpan Types: Standard vs. Fracture Pan

Before you begin, it's crucial to identify the type of bedpan you are using. The two most common types have different orientations for proper placement.

Standard Bedpan

A standard bedpan is a rigid, contoured device with a higher rim and a wide, rounded back section. This design helps support the buttocks and contain waste. For a standard bedpan, the correct orientation is to place the wider, rounded end underneath the patient's buttocks, positioned toward the patient's back. The narrower, open end will face toward the foot of the bed.

Fracture Bedpan

A fracture bedpan is a flatter, low-profile bedpan with a built-in handle. It is designed for patients with limited mobility, back injuries, or hip fractures who cannot lift their hips or roll easily. The correct placement for a fracture pan is with the low, flat, and thin end slid under the patient's buttocks, with the handle facing toward the patient's feet.

Step-by-Step: Assisting a Patient Who Can Lift Their Hips

This method is suitable for a patient who can provide some assistance by lifting their hips. Always prioritize communication, comfort, and privacy throughout the process.

1. Gather Your Supplies: Before starting, assemble everything you'll need: the warmed bedpan, a protective waterproof pad, clean gloves, toilet paper, and wipes.
2. Prepare the Patient: Explain the procedure clearly. Ensure the bed is at a comfortable working height and the wheels are locked. Lower the head of the bed to a flat or nearly flat position.
3. Place the Protective Pad: Place a waterproof pad or chux under the patient's buttocks to protect the bed linens.
4. Position the Bedpan: Once prepared, ask the patient to bend their knees and push with their feet to lift their hips slightly. For a standard bedpan, slide the wider, curved end under their buttocks. For a fracture bedpan, slide the flatter end under their buttocks with the handle pointing toward their feet. Offer a hand for support under their lower back if needed.
5. Secure and Elevate: Gently instruct the patient to lower themselves onto the bedpan. Once in place, raise the head of the bed to a semi-sitting position. This angle makes elimination easier and more natural.
6. Provide Privacy: Give the patient toilet paper and privacy. Ensure their call light is within reach.

Step-by-Step: Assisting a Patient Who Cannot Lift Their Hips

For patients with minimal or no mobility, a "log roll" technique is the safest method for placement.

1. Preparation: Follow the initial steps of gathering supplies and preparing the patient and bed as described above.
2. Turn the Patient: Gently roll the patient onto their side, turning them away from you. Ensure they are secure and cannot fall.
3. Position the Pad and Bedpan: Place the protective pad underneath the patient's buttocks and tuck it snugly against them. Then, position the bedpan firmly against their buttocks. For a standard pan, the wide, curved end should be against their back. For a fracture pan, the flat end should be against their back with the handle toward their feet.
4. Roll Onto the Bedpan: Holding the bedpan securely in place, gently roll the patient back onto their back and onto the bedpan. Double-check that they are centered and comfortably positioned.
5. Elevate and Cover: Raise the head of the bed to a comfortable position, cover the patient, and provide privacy as with the other method.

Bedpan Comparison: Standard vs. Fracture

Feature	Standard Bedpan	Fracture Bedpan
Best For	Patients who can lift their hips slightly.	Patients with hip fractures, spinal injuries, or very limited mobility.
Shape	Wider, rounded back with a higher rim.	Flatter, lower profile with a tapered, thin end.
Insertion End	Wider, contoured side for support.	Thin, tapered end for easy sliding.
Patient Position	Requires lifting hips or rolling.	Primarily requires rolling, minimizing hip flexion.
Comfort	Can feel bulky for some patients.	Less intrusive and more comfortable for certain injuries.
Handle	Typically no handle.	Features a handle at the feet end for placement.

Best Practices for Caregivers

• Warm the Bedpan: Cold bedpans can be uncomfortable. Rinsing with warm water and drying can improve patient comfort.
• Maintain Hygiene: Always wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly before and after the procedure.
• Ensure Privacy: Close curtains and doors to protect the patient's dignity.
• Provide Wiping Assistance: Offer toilet paper and ask if the patient needs help wiping. Wiping from front to back is crucial, especially for female patients, to prevent UTIs.
• Empty Promptly: Do not leave a soiled bedpan in place for an extended period. Empty and clean it immediately.
• Document Output: If required for medical tracking, note the amount and characteristics of the output.

Conclusion

Understanding which way does a bedpan go under someone is a fundamental skill for effective, compassionate caregiving. The correct technique, whether assisting a patient who can lift their hips or one who requires rolling, significantly impacts the patient's comfort and dignity. By following these detailed steps and best practices, caregivers can ensure a hygienic, safe, and respectful experience. Always remember to prioritize clear communication and maintain patient dignity throughout the process. For more detailed instructions on various home care procedures, you can consult authoritative resources like medical textbooks or reputable healthcare websites.

This article offers guidance for home caregivers. For complex medical conditions, always follow a healthcare professional's specific instructions. For more in-depth information on caregiver skills, see the Medicine LibreTexts Foundations for Assisting in Home Care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you put a bedpan under someone who can't move?

To put a bedpan under someone who can't move, you should use the log roll method. Gently roll the patient onto their side, place the bedpan against their buttocks, and then roll them back onto the pan while holding it firmly in place.

Is there a right way to place a standard bedpan?

Yes, for a standard bedpan, the correct placement is with the wider, curved end facing toward the patient's back and the narrower, open end facing the foot of the bed. This provides the best support and containment.

How is a fracture bedpan placed differently?

Unlike a standard bedpan, a fracture bedpan is placed with the low, flat end slid under the patient's buttocks. The handle should point toward the patient's feet, and this design reduces the need for the patient to lift their hips.

What's the difference between a standard bedpan and a fracture bedpan?

A standard bedpan is deeper with a higher, curved back and is used for patients who can assist in lifting their hips. A fracture bedpan is flatter and has a thin lip, making it ideal for patients with spinal or hip injuries who cannot lift their hips.

Should I warm the bedpan before use?

Yes, warming the bedpan with some warm water before use can make the experience more comfortable for the patient. Ensure the bedpan is dried thoroughly before placing it.

How do I ensure the patient's privacy during this process?

Always close the door and curtains. Only expose the necessary parts of the patient's body for the procedure. Provide the patient with a blanket to cover themselves for added comfort and dignity.

How do I avoid spills when removing the bedpan?

When removing the bedpan, ensure the patient is flat again before rolling them off. Hold the bedpan securely and keep it level as you gently roll the patient to their side. Once off, cover the contents and dispose of them promptly.