Which safety step must be performed when assisting a resident with a bedpan?

Which safety step must be performed when assisting a resident with a bedpan?

• A. Raise HOB and lower after
• B. Remove privacy blanket
• C. Call light after
• D. Sit resident at edge of bed

Answer: (A)

Raising the head of the bed before and after assisting with a bedpan is a safety-focused positioning step. Placing the resident in a semi-upright position makes breathing easier, reduces the risk of choking or aspiration, and helps gravity help with elimination. It also provides a stable, comfortable posture for placing and removing the bedpan. After the bedpan use is finished, lowering the head of the bed back to a comfortable level helps prevent the resident from sliding or tipping and reduces the chance of falls when you finish the task. Privacy should be maintained, the call light kept within reach, and moving the resident to sit on the edge of the bed isn’t necessary for safety during this procedure.

Raising the head of the bed before and after assisting with a bedpan is a safety-focused positioning step. Placing the resident in a semi-upright position makes breathing easier, reduces the risk of choking or aspiration, and helps gravity help with elimination. It also provides a stable, comfortable posture for placing and removing the bedpan. After the bedpan use is finished, lowering the head of the bed back to a comfortable level helps prevent the resident from sliding or tipping and reduces the chance of falls when you finish the task. Privacy should be maintained, the call light kept within reach, and moving the resident to sit on the edge of the bed isn’t necessary for safety during this procedure.