Questions and Answers
What is the purpose of using a bedpan?
Provide a means of elimination for patients who are confined to bed or can't get to the bathroom independently or safely.
Which of the following items are needed for using a bedpan? (Select all that apply)
What should you assess regarding the patient's elimination habits?
Assess the patient's normal elimination habits and when he or she last voided or defecated.
What should you check regarding the patient's mobility?
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What should you review to determine if specific specimens are needed?
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What types of medications should be identified before using a bedpan?
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What is the first step in the procedure for using a bedpan?
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Why is it important to identify the patient before the procedure?
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What should you do to ensure patient privacy during the procedure?
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What should be done to prevent the patient from rolling out of bed during the procedure?
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What is the rationale for raising the bed to an appropriate height for the nurse?
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What should be done for patients who can assist with raising their buttocks?
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What is the rationale for using a waterproof pad during the procedure?
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How should the bedpan be positioned for a patient unable to assist in raising their buttocks?
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What should you do after placing the bedpan?
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Why should the bed height be lowered to the lowest position after use?
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What should be placed at the bedside after removing the bedpan?
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Study Notes
Purpose of Bedpan Use
- Provides a means for patients confined to bed to eliminate waste.
- Essential for those unable to access the bathroom independently or safely.
Equipment Needed
- Clean bedpan or fracture pan.
- Toilet paper, washcloth, towel, soap, and possibly air freshener.
- Specimen container if a sample is required.
- Cover for bedpan if disposal options aren't available.
- Disposable gloves.
Patient Assessment
- Evaluate the patient's normal elimination habits and recent voiding or defecation.
- Assess mobility, positioning restrictions, and required assistance.
- Review medical orders for any needed urine or fecal specimens.
- Identify medications impacting urine or feces characteristics.
General Procedure Steps
- Perform hand hygiene and don clean gloves to reduce microbe transmission.
- Identify the patient to ensure accurate assessment and minimize errors.
- Ensure privacy by closing the door or using bed curtains, which helps reduce anxiety and improve compliance.
- Position side rails up on the opposite side to prevent patient from rolling out of bed during the process.
Preparing the Patient
- Raise the bed to a height suitable for the nurse's working position.
- For cooperative patients, fold linens to expose hips and assist them in flexing knees and lifting buttocks to position the bedpan properly.
- Use waterproof pads to protect bedding and support weight during the process.
For Non-Cooperative Patients
- Lower the head of the bed and minimally expose the patient by folding linens.
- Assist the patient to roll onto their side to properly position the bedpan.
- Ensure proper placement of the bedpan against the buttocks to prevent spills.
Final Steps in Bedpan Use
- Cover the patient with linens, placing the call light and toilet paper within reach to ensure privacy and dignity.
- Raise the head of the bed to 45-80 degrees unless contraindicated to improve comfort and facilitate elimination.
- Lower the bed to the lowest position after use, and raise side rails as indicated for patient safety.
- Finally, perform hand hygiene and allow the patient privacy.
Aftercare
- Promptly respond to the call light to prevent discomfort and possible skin pressure from prolonged bedpan use.
- Prepare bedside with soap, wet washcloth, and towel for hygienic cleaning after use.
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Description
This quiz covers the essential procedures for using a bedpan, including its purpose and required equipment. It is designed to enhance understanding for caregivers and health professionals who assist patients with mobility limitations. Test your knowledge with these informative flashcards!