Bedpan: Which step should be performed before removing the bedpan?

• A. Provide toilet tissue before removing bedpan.
• B. Empty bedpan contents into toilet.
• C. Lower head of bed before removing bedpan.
• D. Clean perineal area after removing bedpan.

Answer: (A)

Providing toilet tissue before removing the bedpan is about preserving the patient’s dignity and maintaining hygiene. After the patient finishes using the bedpan, offering tissue allows them to wipe themselves and stay clean while the bedpan is still in place. This minimizes mess, protects the linens and environment, and reduces the risk of contamination during the transfer from bedpan to toilet. Once the patient has wiped, you can remove the bedpan and proceed with emptying, rinsing, and disposing as needed. Lowering the head of the bed is a safety/comfort step that may be done as appropriate, but it isn’t the action that directly ensures cleanliness before bedpan removal. Perineal cleaning typically occurs after the bedpan is removed.