If you’re a newly employed caregiver or take care of a loved one, changing diapers for the first time can be frustrating. It’s a process that requires a bit of practice and patience. If the patient is immobile and incontinent, you may have a tough time taking everything under control.
The number of times you have to change diapers depends on the patient. If the patient can’t control the urination or defecation, you have to change them often. When you attempt changing diapers, you need to have all the necessary equipment right from the start. Other important things are your attitude, focus, and carefulness.
Having another person to help you around the patient is always easier, but we’re here to help you out if you’re on your own. We will talk about all the things necessary before and during the process.
Things to keep in mind
While you’re changing and putting a new adult brief on the patient, there are things to keep in mind. Here we will mention everything you need when treating a patient.
The right diaper size
Before using a new one, see if you have the right adult diaper size for a patient. If the diapers don’t cover the buttocks, their waistband is tight, or the red marks appear, it’s time to use a bigger diaper size. It’s important because otherwise, the patient could feel pain, irritations, and unsettlement. Patients should always feel comfortable while wearing them.
We recommend you get tab-style diapers. They are absorbent products that are suitable for immobile patients. They’re great for patients with a very higmount of incontinence because they can easily open at the sides.
Medical gloves
Make sure you have all the needed tools for the process. First of all, you’re going to need a pair of gloves. The suitable gloves will protect you from incontinence. Also, they will help avoid harm and infection on the patient. Before using them, look for vinyl, nitrile, or latex pairs of gloves. See which ones are best for you and your patient.
Barrier cleansing cream
It would be best if you had barrier cleansing cream as well. If the patient has fragile skin, infections, or diaper rash, apply barrier cleansing cream gently and slowly. Let the patient’s skin absorb the cream before putting on new diapers.
Adult hygienic wipes
Next to the gloves and cream, wipes are necessary for your patient. They protect both your hands and the patient’s body. If your patient has sensitive skin, use fragrance-free wipes. If you’re changing briefs very often, go with non-flushable gloves. They are firm, tight, and can hardly tear.
Prepare a dustbin
You need to prepare a dustbin for used stuff during the diaper changing process. When you take off old diapers or used gloves, throw them in the dustbin.
Positive attitude
Throughout the whole treatment, try to have a positive attitude towards the patient. Changing diapers can be frustrating, and sometimes you won’t feel like doing it. No matter what, try to remain calm when changing diapers because neither you nor the patient wants to feel uncomfortable. Know that they don’t like being in this situation either.
How to change diapers
First off, put your patient to rest on a disposable underpad. They make the patient feel more comfortable and absorb the mess during the diaper change. Your patient has to rest on their back on the underpad.
Remove the old diapers
After that, you need to take off the old diapers your patient is wearing. Pull the tabs from the front panel of the brief, then the front panel. Take a clean wipe and wipe off every stain from the patient. Then make your patient lay on the side. If they experience rashes, incontinence, or odor, take a wipe to clean off their bottom. When done, roll the diapers up, take your gloves off, and throw them in the bin.
Put on the new diapers
After taking off the old briefs:
- Wash your hands before putting on new gloves.
- Again, roll your patient on their side.
- Spread out the diaper, then slide it between their legs.
- Remember, the thick end of the diaper is for the back.
- Make sure that the back panel covers the whole bottom of the patient.
Now, roll your patient towards you to lay on the back. Pull up the front panel to cover their belly and link the tabs around their waist. Remove every wrinkle from the diapers, and make sure that your patient feels comfortable wearing them. Dispose of the used gloves, wash your hands, and put your patient to lay in a comfortable position.
Conclusion
Changing adult diapers on a patient can be frustrating, whether you’re an employed caregiver, their child, or a significant other. It can give you tons of hardships if you’re new to the process and being the only one performing. However, if you follow these steps mentioned, you will learn how to change diapers efficiently. In the end, your patient will feel better, and thank you for it.
