Stupid question, but when toileting a patient...

[Rebewarr]

Hi, I'm currently a nursing student.

I'm really unsure, but would feel stupid asking in class...

When someone goes to the toilet using the commode chair, do they wipe themselves, or do you need to? I get that they should be able to do it themselves if their arms arent injured, but the armrests look like they could get in the way?

Also, when they use a bedpan where they can just lift up their hips and you put it under/remove, do you still need to wipe? I know if they roll you do, but not sure about this!

Thanks

[jessanne84]

Hi there, I work in a nursing home and if a patient has a commode chair beside their bed and is mobile and doesnt need assistance to get themselves off and on the commode then they generally do it themselves, but if your patient has a commode beside their bed and you as a nurse are meant to toilet them for example 2 hourly or when they buzz then generally the nurse will wipe for them. It really just depends on the patient, and with panning a patient we always wipe for them.

[Asystole RN]

You should ask them...

[queenjulie, RN]

I think it's okay to just ask, "Can I help you with getting cleaned up?" or something like that.

[AprilRNurse]

You should always encourage them to wipe if they are able. Statistically people stay healthier longer if they retain some of their independence.

Even with the bedpan- if they aren't a total assist, and able to, I'll ask if they can try to wipe.

If they truly are unable- I'm more than willing- but it's better for them if they do it themselves when capable.

[Mona77]

Try to strengthen their self-care competence!

Let them wipe themselves if they are able to, and no contraindications are apparent.

Prepare all needed utensils, to promote comfort and secure patient`s privacy.

Don`t hesitate, ask patients about their wishes and how you can comfort them!