Offering a Client a Bedpan

WARNING: this simulation contains nudity.

Males and females who, for a variety of reasons, cannot use a toilet or commode will use a bedpan as a receptacle for the elimination of waste. Using a bedpan can be distressing for some clients. Nurses must remain supportive and professional throughout this procedure, while maintaining the client’s privacy and dignity.

Nurses must check the client’s care plan to ascertain:

• limits to the client’s position and activity and
• the type of bedpan most suitable; a regular bedpan or a fracture/slipper bedpan (for clients with hip and back problems and/or a cast in situ).