( 2 reviews )
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( 1 of 1 found this review helpful ) Posted: Sep 14 2007
This is sturdy, and long lasting. The disposable are very cheap and breakable. Try this one, it will last.
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( 3 of 3 found this review helpful ) Posted: Jun 27 2007
No one likes to use a bedpan, but sometimes they are necessary, particularly if you are caring for a loved one at home. Bedpans are a relatively cheap item, and with most you get what you pay for. This one is more costly, but the quality is much better, meaning it will last longer and not break or crack, which is a problem with many after minimal reuse. (Obviously, breakage is a concern because if the plastic cracks, you have a mess in the bed to care for.) There are 3 types of bedpans: a "fracture pan," which is used for people with hip fracture, hip replacement, pelvic fracture and the like. This bedpan is comfortable for the patient but does not hold a lot..I estimate 500cc (1 pint) or less. The next type is a "pontoon" bedpan. It looks much like this one, but the center of the inside is hollowed out, leaving an oval-shaped area to collect elimination. This model holds about 800 to 900 cc (just under a quart) without spilling, but you've got to be careful when removing it. This bedpan is the third type. It is called a "saddle" pan. It resembles the old-fashioned metal bedpans in shape. The entire inner surface is open, so it will hold a large quantity of elimination (probably about 2000cc; much more than you need unless you are emptying a full catheter bag) without spilling. Because the plastic is of good quality, it should support the weight of a large person and withstand repeated use without cracking and spilling. Now that you know all that you never wanted to know about bedpans, you may need to know about quantity of elimination. Most people feel the urge to void when their bladders contain approximately 150cc to 250cc, or 5 to 8 ounces. Many people can hold 300 cc (10 ounces) to 500 cc (approx 16 ounces) before the bladder can contain no more and empties involuntarily. A few can hold up to a quart comfortably, but much depends on age, neurological disease, and individual factors. When selecting a bedpan, you also have to consider patient comfort, the durability of the unit, and the size of the patient. If you have trouble with a plastic bedpan sticking to the skin (which is a problem with many patients, particularly those of size), dust the edges with a very light dusting of baby powder before inserting it. IMO, this unit gets an A+ for comfort, durability, patient size, and quantity it holds, and is well worth the price. No one wants to discuss bedpans, let alone learn the above. However, to be an informed consumer, you may find yourself in a position to purchase a bedpan, and it helps to know the pros and cons. Life can be fickle, and you may suddenly find yourself in a situation in which this becomes a necessary item in the care of yourself or a loved one. I highly recommend this unit, and have shopped extensively for a similar bedpan. Of the various saddle-type pans, I believe this is most durable (aside from the uncomfortable, cold, old metal type). Of the durable pans available, amazon's price is the most competetive that I could find. I depend on amazon's consumer ratings when I purchase items, and because I am a nurse, I decided to review the bedpan; an item that I have purchased that is one of the "unmentionables" that most people do not want to discuss, let alone review. This is a good value for your hard-earned dollars. Best wishes in the care of your home care patient!
