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Alternative bedpans based on US world news: catheters (internal/external), portable urinals. commode chairs, adult diapers

Managing proper hygiene and cleaning of bedpans for bedridden individuals is important to reduce the risk of infection. Used bedpans contain bodily fluids and wastes and can either be reused through disinfection or disposed of. Washer disinfectors are instruments used to disinfect used bedpans with high temperatures of at least 80ºC to 85ºC. As mentioned previously, bedpans commonly come in stainless steel because of its durability and ease of cleaning. Compared to other metals like copper, steel does not have an inherent ability to disinfect. Copper has had some antimicrobial indications dating back to the 19th century as some copper workers appeared immune to cholera outbreaks, or using copper to treat infections/infectious complications.

Old age and multiple co-morbidities increase the risk of adults to develop urinary incontinence. Absorbent products are designed specifically to absorb/contain urine and some are even reusable. There are various designs of absorbent products and some may be more suited for individuals depending on their level of incontinence: Panty liners, pads, and guards for men help to manage light/moderate incontinence whereas undergarments, protective underwear, and adult diapers help to manage moderate/heavy incontinence. Choosing which product to use depends on many factors such as gender, cost and level of dependence on absorbent product; but all products have absorbent lining that prevents leakage and odor.

For individuals who are bedridden or have trouble with urinary incontinence, urinary catheters can get rid of fluids wastes; however fecal matter may still require use of a bedpan/other instruments. Indwelling urinary catheters are catheters that can be used for years and akin to bedpans come either as a one-time use drainage bag or a leg bag which can be cleaned/reused. A common complication of long-term catheter usage is asymptomatic bacteriuria.

Portable urinals, or urinal bottles, are common instruments used for not only those that are bedridden, but also those en route to get rid of liquid wastes. Usage of portable urinals has a long history, dating all the back to the French Renaissance in the 16th century when surgeons developed the urinals to manage male urinary incontinence. Female urinals do exist, however its ease of use may be less compared to male urinals since it requires a wider opening and can lead to spillage especially for bedridden individuals, in which a bedpan would be more suited.

Mobile shower commodes are types of sturdy portable toilets that can be used outside the bed for individuals. For those with spinal cord injury, shower commodes are a common part of assistive technology to help with bowel movements and bathing routines. Some concerns with shower commodes include long and frequent usage being associated with skin breakdown and development of pressure ulcers, but more studies need to be conducted to address safety concerns.

Providing tobacco cessation treatment, etc.