Using a Bedpan Procedure Flashcards

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)

Toilet paper (correct)

Air freshener (correct)

Disinfectant wipes

Clean bedpan or fracture pan (correct)

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?

Assess level of mobility, positioning restrictions, and degree of assistance required. Signup and view all the answers

What should you review to determine if specific specimens are needed?

Review orders to determine if urine or fecal specimens are needed. Signup and view all the answers

What types of medications should be identified before using a bedpan?

Identify medications the patient is receiving that would alter the color, consistency, or amount of urine or feces obtained. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the procedure for using a bedpan?

Perform hand hygiene and don clean gloves. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to identify the patient before the procedure?

Ensures the correct patient receives the proper assessment or treatment and reduces errors. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to ensure patient privacy during the procedure?

Close the door or bed curtains and explain the procedure to the patient and the patient's family. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to prevent the patient from rolling out of bed during the procedure?

Position the lock side rail up on the opposite side of the bed from which you will work. Signup and view all the answers

What is the rationale for raising the bed to an appropriate height for the nurse?

Prevents muscle strain and promotes proper body mechanics. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done for patients who can assist with raising their buttocks?

Fold top linen down and help the patient flex knees and lift buttocks. Signup and view all the answers

What is the rationale for using a waterproof pad during the procedure?

It protects sheets and supports the patient's body weight. Signup and view all the answers

How should the bedpan be positioned for a patient unable to assist in raising their buttocks?

Help the patient to roll to a side-lying position and place the bedpan against the buttocks. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do after placing the bedpan?

Cover the patient with linen and place the call light and toilet paper within reach. Signup and view all the answers

Why should the bed height be lowered to the lowest position after use?

To ensure patient safety. Signup and view all the answers

What should be placed at the bedside after removing the bedpan?

Place soap, wet washcloth, and towel at bedside. Signup and view all the answers

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!