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Bacteriological hazards of disposable bedpan systems
Abstract:
A system using disposable papier maché bedpans and urinals in hospital has advantages of ease of handling for the nurse and cleanliness for the patient. Disposal of the bedpans and their contents is by destruction and flushing to waste. Some bacteriological hazards of this process in the Haigh Sluicemaster and J.M.L. Clinimatic machines are assessed, particularly the dispersal of the contents in spray and aerosol during opening, closing, and running the machines. Various safety devices were tested and some deficiencies are discussed.A major defect in the system is the need at present for a bedpan carrier or support which is not disposable and requires cleaning and disinfection. Minor problems include ordering and storing bulky items, possibly the texture of the bedpans themselves, and perhaps the effect of the bulk of paper discharged into the sewage system. At present the system seems unsuitable for use in infectious disease hospitals and has some deficiencies in use in general wards. The improvements suggested would greatly increase its acceptability which should then be completely re-assessed. To this end the examination of improved models using totally disposable bedpans is proceeding.
Insights
Disposable papier maché bedpans offer handling and cleanliness benefits but pose bacteriological hazards and require improvements for broader hospital adoption. Further assessment of enhanced models is underway.
Area of Science:
- Hospital hygiene and waste management.
- Infection control in healthcare settings.
- Medical device safety and evaluation.
Background:
- Traditional bedpans require extensive cleaning and disinfection, posing infection risks.
- Disposable bedpans offer potential advantages in nurse handling and patient cleanliness.
- Current disposal systems involve machine destruction and flushing, raising safety concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the bacteriological hazards associated with disposable papier maché bedpan disposal systems.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of safety devices in mitigating risks.
- To identify deficiencies and suggest improvements for wider system acceptability.
Main Methods:
- Bacteriological hazard assessment of specific disposal machines (Haigh Sluicemaster, J.M.L. Clinimatic).
- Evaluation of spray and aerosol dispersal during machine operation.
- Testing of various safety devices and identification of system defects.
Main Results:
- Bacteriological hazards identified, particularly spray and aerosol dispersal during machine operation.
- A major defect is the non-disposable bedpan carrier requiring separate cleaning.
- Minor issues include storage, bedpan texture, and sewage system impact.
Conclusions:
- The current disposable bedpan system has significant deficiencies, including bacteriological risks and non-disposable components.
- The system is currently unsuitable for infectious disease hospitals and has limitations in general wards.
- Suggested improvements and evaluation of totally disposable models are necessary for increased acceptability.