by Diane K. Newman, DNP, FAAN, BCB-PMD
Male and female urinals, commodes and bedpans can all be used as urine collection devices. These are devices that you can use as a toilet when the toilet is either not available or impossible to use and they all "catch" the urine to help manage urinary incontinence.
Bedside commodes and bathroom changes
One way to decrease urine leakage on the way to the bathroom is to make toileting easier. A commode chair may be the answer. Some have drop arms and adjustable heights to allow for your needs. There are also high-rise commodes that fit over toilets if you have a problem getting on and off a regular toilet.
Changes in the bathroom can also help you remain continent. Removing the bathroom door and using a curtain or swinging doors can make access by a wheelchair possible. Grab bars in the right spot and a toilet seat adapter can make the toilet safer. Also, bathrooms with gravity-assisted door closer mechanisms can be helpful. If you are redesigning your bathroom to make toileting easier, the desired dimensions should be a minimum of 5' x 8'.
Portable commodes (bedside commodes) can be placed close to the bed for easy use at night or on the floor of the house that does not have a bathroom. Bedside commodes are lightweight and easy to maneuver, but have solid construction.
Male and female urinals
A urinal is a hand-held, bottle-shaped container that can have two different types of necks. They are easy to use. They have handles, can be placed next to you, can be hung on a bedrail, wheelchair, or walker, or can be laid flat on the bed. There are rehab, spill-proof male urinals with large funnel openings to deal with a retracted penis. Often these rehab urinals have a flat bottom so they can be placed on the bed. The openings in rehab urinals have a flange that extends into the urinal and does not allow backflow even when held almost upside down. Female urinals also are a better alternative for persons traveling, sitting in wheelchairs or chairs, or who are bed-bound. Female urinals that work are not easy to find.
Bedpans
Bedpans come in many sizes, can be large or small, and are usually made of plastic. They can be used to toilet yourself on a chair or bed. The "fracture" bedpan is smaller, easier to use, and has a grip handle. Often the use of a "fracture bedpan" makes the woman more likely to be able to urinate without pain especially after surgery for a fracture or hip repair. Inflatable bedpans are also good alternatives for the person who is in pain or is difficult to turn and move into position on a bedpan. Resourcefulness and an open mind are keys to learning to use these devices.
Urethral plugs for women
The FDA has approved urethral plugs and patches for women. The urethral plug or insert is a single-use, disposable device that can temporarily prevent urine leakage from stress urinary incontinence. They are on the market for use during physical activities that may cause urine leakage such as tennis. They are removed before urinating and must be fitted by a trained physician/urologist.
References
Newman, DK. Managing and Treating Urinary Incontinence. Health Professions Pr. 2002.
Posted December 2003
Updated June 2009
