Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 3, 2025

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection
Published on: December 8, 2014
Reuse of hospital bedpans
Tamires Alessandra Mineli1, Denise de Andrade1, Simone de Godoy1
1Universidade de São Paulo. Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
Objectives:
to evaluate the results of two methods of hospital bedpan reprocessing.
Methods:
cross-sectional study. Hospital bedpans containing a biological material contamination simulator or organic matter were submitted to manual cleaning followed by disinfection with 70% alcohol solution or thermodisinfection. Permanence of simulated contamination was evaluated by using the fluorescence technique and presence of organic matter was verified by carrying out the protein detection test.
Results:
the contamination simulator was found in bedpans submitted to both processes. The seat was dirtier after manual cleaning (p=0.044) in comparison with the result obtained with thermodisinfection. Automatized decontamination led to worse results when compared to the manual procedure for the scoop and external bottom (p=0.000). The protein detection test was positive in two items after thermodisinfection.
Conclusions:
manual cleaning followed by rubbing with 70% alcohol solution proved more effective than automatized cleaning in the reprocessing of hospital bedpans. There are relevant issues regarding reuse of hospital bedpans.
Related Concept Videos
Handwashing I: Introduction and Types of Equipment
Hand wash basins in clinical areas should have faucets that can be turned on and off without using the hands; that is, they should be non-touch or lever-operated....
Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
Hand hygiene
Hand washing...
Standard Precaution
Hand hygiene is the most crucial means to prevent the transmission of disease. Employers are legally required to provide their workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure or contact with...
Hospitals-II
Nurses that work in...
Hospitals-I

