A bed change should protect privacy, use the person’s approved positioning plan, clean gently, and leave the new brief smooth and secure. If repositioning is not safe for one caregiver, get trained help before trying it alone.
Prepare everything before starting
Place supplies within reach so the person is not left exposed.
- Clean tab-style brief in the correct size.
- Approved cleansing product and soft cloths or wipes.
- Disposable bag.
- Gloves if required by the care plan.
- Clean underpad and clothing if needed.
- Skin product only if it is already part of the approved routine.
Explain what you will do and ask permission when the person can consent.
Protect privacy and safe positioning
Close doors and curtains. Cover areas not being cleaned.
Use the bed height, rails, lift equipment, and number of helpers specified in the care plan. Do not improvise a lift or pull the person by an arm or leg.
NIA recommends getting help and using caregiving resources when personal care exceeds what one person can safely provide: Frequently Asked Questions About Caregiving.
Remove the used brief
Unfasten the side tabs. Fold the front inward to contain wet or soiled areas. Use the approved side-to-side positioning method to free the back of the brief.
Place the used product directly into the disposal bag. Avoid placing it on furniture or the floor.
Clean gently and inspect the skin
Clean from the least soiled area toward the more soiled area. Use a fresh section of cloth or wipe as needed. Pat dry rather than rubbing.
Look for new redness, open areas, swelling, bleeding, or pain. Report changes according to the care plan. AHRQ explains that immobility and moisture are among the factors considered in pressure-injury prevention: AHRQ Skin Under Pressure.
Position the clean brief
Open the clean brief fully. Follow the product’s front/back markings. Position the back panel evenly, then return the person to the approved resting position.
Bring the front panel up without twisting the product. Fasten the tabs evenly. The brief should be secure but not tight.
Check:
- Waistband lies flat.
- Leg openings touch without pinching.
- Core is centered.
- Tabs do not press into skin.
- No folds remain under the person.
Finish the handoff
Make the person comfortable, dispose of waste, clean the work area, wash hands, and record the change if the care plan requires it.
Note new leaks, skin changes, pain, fever, blood in urine, trouble urinating, or a sudden pattern change. NIDDK advises medical evaluation for bladder-control problems and explains that treatment depends on the cause: NIDDK bladder-control problems.
Read Changing Protection With Dignity for language and privacy guidance.
Compare tab-style briefs, underpads, and cleanup supplies after confirming the person’s size and care plan.
Sources
These are the sources cited in this article.
- National Institute on Aging: Frequently Asked Questions About Caregiving
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality: Skin Under Pressure
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Bladder Control Problems
This article is for general education only and does not replace medical advice or hands-on training. Ask a qualified healthcare professional about symptoms, skin concerns, transfers, or changes to a care plan.