If you’re caring for family members or individuals who are bedridden and unable to access the bathroom, you may be in need of a living aid like a bedpan or urinal. There are different types of bedpans, each suited to a different set of circumstances. When it comes to toileting aids, bedpans aren’t the only option. Urinals, too, have their place.
But what’s the difference between a bedpan and a urinal, and how do you know which one is the right choice?
Urinal vs. Bedpan — What’s the Difference?
The most fundamental difference between urinals and bedpans is that bedpans can be used for either urinating or bowel movements, while urinals can only be used for urination. Bedpans are, as the name suggests, pan-like, while urinals resemble bottles with handles. Bedpans are intended for use when lying or sitting down, while urinals are designed to be used while standing or sitting down. Both can be used by either sex, though male and female urinals are different in design.
Types of Bedpans and Urinals
There are two primary styles of bedpans: the cutaway pan and the slipper pan.
- Cutaway pans are triangular, flat, and roughly the same height all the way around. Cutaway pans work best for people who can sit up.
- Slipper pans, on the other hand, are designed with those who cannot sit up. They’re tall on one end and thinner on the other, making them easier to slide underneath a prone person. They also sport a handle, making positioning and removing them more accessible.
There are also bariatric versions of both styles; these are designed to withstand heavier weights and are manufactured with more durable materials.
There are also two basic types of urinals: male urinals and female urinals.
- Male urinals are bottles with handles and wide, round openings, similar in shape to a half-gallon plastic jug but with a wider top. They usually have one flattened side to be safely set down, and most include a lid to prevent spills.
- Female urinals are indistinguishable from male urinals save for the opening, which is funnel-shaped and curved to fit snugly against the body during use.
How Do I Choose a Bedpan or Urinal?
Before making a decision, there are several questions to consider, such as:
- Do you need a bedpan, a urinal, or both?
- Will a man or a woman use it? Especially in the case of urinals, male and female bodies have different needs. A male urinal will not be suitable for a woman.
- How mobile is the person who will be using the appliance? People who are capable of sitting on their own or transferring to a commode chair will have different needs than those who are genuinely bed-bound. Also, someone who requires help lifting their hips and buttocks off the bed will have different needs than someone who can do it on their own.
- How often is it likely to be used? Bedpans and urinals come in different sizes and capacities, and you may want a larger size if you expect frequent use.
- Will it be used long-term or only for a short period? A sturdier but more expensive model may be the best option for long-term use.
- How much does the intended user weigh? Do you need a standard bedpan or a bariatric model?
For instructions on using a bedpan, talk to your healthcare provider, as this may vary depending on your health and your level of mobility. Visit Simply Medical today for the best bedpans, urinals, and other toileting aids.