A patient who is unable to get up to the bathroom for the purpose of urination or of defecation will use a bedpan or urinal. A bedpan is a device for receiving feces or urine from either male or female patients confined to bed and a urinal is a device for collecting urine from male patients. Using a bedpan or urinal is a private and personal procedure and it is important to make the environment as private as possible. It is also important that caregivers offer the bedpan or urinal frequently, because patients run the risk of accidentally soiling bedclothes, which can be an embarrassing situation.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.