When most people hear about bedpans they think that they would never need one and that they would always be able to make it to the loo. However, that is really not the case.
If you were to become immobile or someone in your family did, this is a great way to relieve some of that stress of getting to the toilet on time.
These are also used for people who are recovering from injuries which means that they can’t move very far and they need something they can use next to their beds.
Therefore, they can have many more purposes for different people, whether they are older, immobile or in recovery and are also very helpful.
This guide will give you all of the information you need to know about how to use your benpan so you don’t have any issues with it.
Even though it might sound really straightforward, for some people who are immobile will struggle to use something like this. Moreover, if you’re ever in a situation where you are temporarily immobile, this will also be a great guide for you.
Different Types Of Bedpans
- A unisex bedpan – this particular bedpan is very ideal for someone who is only temporarily bed bound and unable to move to make it to the toilet. It is fitted with a solid lid to make sure there are no unwanted leaks and spills. This is there to assist someone to just make their lives easier while they are in hospital or bed bound at home.
- There are also items such as sanichairs or commodes which are designed to make it a bit more private for the person having to use it. Not everyone is comfortable being around others using these types of things and just being completely open. Some people like a bit more privacy when it comes to these matters, and these could also be a good option.
Steps On How To Use A Bedpan
- Many people like to have a small amount of baby powder sprinkled on the bedpan so it is easier to sit on and slide it under if necessary.
- It makes it much easier and more comfortable if the person is able to lift their hips slightly so they are able to move upwards over the bed pan. Some people who are severely immobile might not be able to do this on their own and may need assistance from someone else.
- If they are unable to lift up then this can also be done from the side. They are then able to be rolled onto the bed pan with others’ support. If this is the case, you will need to make sure the bedpan is held in place so there are no issues with leaks and spills.
- It will be easier for someone who can lift their hips up and down because when they are finished, they are able to just lift up and someone can take out the bedpan from underneath you.
- You can also leave the person when they are using the bedpan if they wish to have some privacy as long as it is secure. Then when you return, you can help them take it out.
- This could also involve someone helping you to wipe if necessary.
- You will then need to take the bedpan and empty it all into a toilet.
- You will then need to thoroughly clean the bedpan afterwards by following the instructions on the package to make sure it is properly clean.
The Best Way To Position A Bedpan
When you are placing the bedpan, you need to make sure it is in the most comfortable position for the person that needs it.
It may seem like a really simple task but it is a very important process for that person to go through – especially if they do not urinate or have very good bowel movement often.
Therefore, it is important that you are not only physically gentle with the process, but also emotionally sensitive. It might be a bit embarrassing for someone or they may be really fragile, so it needs to be in the correct place.
There are also a couple of things you can do to make it a better experience for whoever needs to use the bedpan. Many people tend to put hot water into the bedpan first, let it heat up and then pour it out before use.
This is to make sure when they sit on it, the bedpan will be warm and not a shock to them. Nobody likes sitting on a cold toilet seat!
Moreover, you can also lay out protective covers if possible for the sheets in case there are any issues with placements or discomfort or if any spills.
Another thing is to always make sure you are wearing gloves and that you have washed your hands in hot soapy water before helping someone use the bedpan.
There are also ways to make sure the clean up process is a bit cleaner and easier.
For example, you could place some toilet roll squares at the bottom of the bedpan and some vegetable oil so nothing sticks to the pan and everything runs out nice and smoothly.
Conclusion
Overall, there is definitely more to this than you probably first thought. When it comes to this process, it can be quite sensitive for some people and they need to also have privacy as if they were in a toilet.
You should also follow the tips on how to make the clean up job easier because it will be a quicker cleaning job and make your life easier.
Hopefully this guide has helped you understand the best way to use a bedpan and the types of aspects you need to be sensitive and aware of when helping someone use this item.