How to Use a Bedpan?

Helping patients to take care of their toileting habits sometimes means bringing the toilet to them. A bedpan is a fast and simple way to help your patients with this task without them needing to get out of bed. As a result, they are able to use the toilet safely when they are not able to safely ambulate.

What is a bedpan?

A bedpan is a type of receptacle that is used to collect stool and urine when a patient is not able to safely ambulate to a toilet. It allows them to use the toilet without having to get out of bed or need to wear an adult diaper during the time that they are bedridden.

When to assist a patient with a bedpan?

Not all of your patients are able to get a bedpan under their body easily or safely. You also have patients with fragile skin that will require assistance to reduce the risk of skin tears when they are getting onto and off of the bedpan. Before assisting your patient with this process, it is important that you ask them if they need help to aid in preserving their dignity.

How to place a bedpan under a patient?

The first part of the CNA bedpan process is to help your patient to get onto the bedpan. Use the following steps:

1. Tell the patient what you are there to do
2. Close the door or curtains for privacy
3. Wash your hands and put on gloves
4. Lay the patient down if they are in a sitting position
5. Aid them in rolling on their side
6. Place a clean pad below the patient
7. With the patient still on their side, place their bedpan under their buttocks using the right positioning
8. Help the patient to roll onto the bedpan
9. Aid the patient is getting back into a sitting position
10. Make sure that they have toilet paper
11. Place the call light within reaching distance
12. Wash your hands and dispose of your gloves
13. Provide the patient with privacy by leaving the room

Steps after a patient uses a bedpan

Once your patient has used the bedpan, there are steps to take to complete this process. These include:

1. Once your patient uses the call light, return to the room promptly
2. Wash your hands and apply a fresh pair of gloves
3. Using a wet washcloth help your patient to cleanse their hands
4. Aid the patient in getting into a lying position
5. Help the patient roll onto their side
6. Remove the pad and the bedpan at the same time
7. Dispose of the pad and measure patient output if it is called for
8. Empty the bedpan into the toilet
9. Using scalding water rinse it twice
10. Dry it using a clean disposable towel
11. Place the bedpan in its proper place
12. Wash your hands and dispose of your gloves
13. Help your patient get into a comfortable position

Video: How to assist patient with bedpan

Expert tips & advice for CNAs to know about assisting with a bedpan

When your patient is using a bedpan, it is important to always tell them what you are doing. This helps to make them feel more comfortable. You also want to remember to record the patient’s output prior to disposing of their urine or stool.

FAQ about using a bedpan