A bedpan is a medical device designed to collect urine or feces from individuals confined to a bed who cannot use a standard toilet due to illness, injury, or severe mobility limitations. Proper technique in positioning this device is important, directly impacting the patient’s safety, comfort, and personal dignity. When placed correctly, a bedpan prevents skin irritation, reduces the risk of soiling linens, and helps the patient feel more comfortable.
Preparing the Patient and Supplies
Before beginning, the caregiver must perform hand hygiene and gather all necessary supplies, including disposable gloves, a waterproof protective pad, toilet tissue, disposable wipes, and the bedpan itself. Explain the process clearly to the patient beforehand to maintain trust and reduce anxiety. Privacy is paramount, so close the curtains or door, and cover the patient with a sheet or blanket to preserve modesty.
The selection of the correct bedpan type is crucial: the standard bedpan or the fracture bedpan. The standard pan is larger and deeper, resembling a toilet seat, used for patients who can assist by lifting their hips. The fracture pan is smaller, with a lower, flatter rim, suitable for patients who cannot lift their hips, such as those recovering from hip replacement or lower extremity fractures. The standard pan’s wider end is placed toward the patient’s head, while the fracture pan’s flatter end is positioned under the buttocks.
Proper Techniques for Placing the Bedpan
To begin placement, adjust the bed to a comfortable working height for the caregiver and lower the bed rails. If the patient is able to assist, instruct them to bend their knees and push down with their heels, lifting their hips off the mattress. The caregiver can then slide the bedpan underneath the buttocks, ensuring the patient is centered on the device.
Side-Lying or Rolling Method
For patients who cannot lift their hips, the side-lying or rolling method is the preferred technique. Gently assist the patient to roll away from the caregiver, turning onto their side. Place a waterproof pad beneath the buttocks to protect the linens from spills.
The bedpan should be firmly pressed against the patient’s buttocks as the caregiver helps the patient roll back onto their back and onto the pan. Hold the bedpan securely in place with one hand while guiding the patient’s hip with the other to prevent accidental spillage or injury. Once centered correctly beneath the buttocks, the head of the bed can be raised to a Semi-Fowler’s position (at least 30 degrees) to promote a more natural posture for elimination. Place the call light and toilet paper within easy reach before stepping away.
Safe Removal and Post-Procedure Care
When the patient signals they are finished, lower the head of the bed to a flat or near-flat position. The removal process reverses placement: if the patient cannot lift their hips, gently assist them to roll away from the bedpan. The caregiver must firmly grasp the bedpan while the patient rolls to prevent spills, carefully sliding it out from underneath.
Post-procedure care focuses on cleanliness and disposal. Clean the patient’s perineal area thoroughly, wiping from front to back (especially for female patients) to prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce infection risk. Dry the skin completely before the patient is repositioned comfortably in bed.
The bedpan should be covered and immediately taken to the disposal area to empty the contents. Following disposal, rinse the bedpan with cold water, clean it with soap and water, and then dry and store it properly. Finally, the caregiver must remove their gloves and perform hand hygiene.