Using a bedpan is often necessary for hospital patients with limited mobility, though it can cause embarrassment or awkwardness. Hospital staff routinely assist with elimination needs for patient comfort and hygiene, normalizing this experience. This guide provides practical, step-by-step information covering preparation, positioning, and managing common issues like constipation. The goal is to demystify the process, allowing patients to confidently communicate their needs and focus on recovery.
Essential Equipment and Preparation
The bedpan is the primary tool for in-bed elimination, coming in two main types. The standard bedpan has a high rim and is used when the patient can be positioned in a semi-seated posture. Fracture pans are smaller with one flat end, suitable for patients who cannot lift their hips high, such as those recovering from hip surgery or lower extremity fractures. This design allows the pan to be slipped underneath with minimal movement.
Before placement, nursing staff gather necessary supplies and prepare the area. This includes placing a protective pad beneath the patient to contain spills, and ensuring disposable wipes, toilet tissue, and gloves are readily available. The nurse may apply talcum powder to the bedpan edges to reduce friction and help it slide easily. Ensuring patient privacy by closing the door or drawing the curtain is also a routine part of preparation.
Techniques for Successful Positioning
Achieving an effective bowel movement in bed requires positioning that mimics sitting upright. Once the bedpan is placed, the head of the bed should be raised to a Fowler’s position, typically 30 to 60 degrees. This semi-sitting posture utilizes gravity and the body’s natural mechanics, which are compromised when lying flat.
Patients should assist in placing the bedpan if possible, reducing strain on the nurse. The patient can bend their knees and use their heels to lift their hips slightly while the nurse slides the pan underneath. For those with severely limited mobility, the nurse will gently roll the patient onto their side, place the bedpan, and roll the patient back. Using a trapeze bar allows the patient to use upper body strength to lift their hips, providing greater control during placement.
Once positioned, focus on relaxing abdominal muscles rather than straining forcefully, which is often ineffective when reclined. Bending forward slightly while bearing down can increase abdominal pressure, helping to empty the bowel. If the patient must remain completely flat, lying on the left side is often preferred, as the large intestine empties toward that side. The nurse will typically leave the call light within reach to allow for privacy and comfort.
Managing Constipation and Bowel Function
Constipation is common during hospitalization due to reduced mobility, dietary changes, and the use of pain medications like opioids. Proactively addressing this is important, as a prolonged lack of bowel movement causes discomfort and complications. Non-pharmacological measures, such as maintaining adequate fluid intake, are foundational, as hydration keeps stool soft and easier to pass.
If permitted, increasing dietary fiber can bulk the stool and stimulate movement. Since diet changes are often insufficient, physicians frequently prescribe pharmacological agents. Treatment often begins with stool softeners, which increase water content in the stool, followed by osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol, which draw water into the colon. Stimulant laxatives, such as senna, may be added to increase colon contractions and promote a bowel movement.
Patients should notify their nurse if they have not had a bowel movement for two or more days, especially if they feel abdominal discomfort. This allows the care team to adjust the regimen promptly. Establishing a regular schedule for attempting a bowel movement, often 20 to 40 minutes after a meal when the gastrocolic reflex is active, can also help regulate function.
Maintaining Dignity and Communicating Needs
Psychological discomfort associated with needing assistance for a bowel movement is common, but patients should remember this is a routine part of care. Hospital staff are trained to manage these situations with professionalism. Open and direct communication with the nursing team is the best way to ensure a comfortable experience.
When the urge occurs, the patient should use the call light immediately, as the natural urge can be transient and missed. Clearly stating the need, such as, “I need the bedpan for a bowel movement,” helps the nurse prioritize the task and gather supplies. To maintain privacy, request that the curtains be drawn or the room door be closed before the process begins.
Once the bedpan is placed, the nurse usually leaves the room briefly to provide privacy. The patient must keep the call light within easy reach to signal when finished. If assistance with perineal hygiene is required, communicate this need without hesitation, as staff are prepared to assist. A calm attitude helps make the process smoother and supports overall recovery.