What is the purpose of using a bedpan?

Using a bedpan is primarily intended to assist a patient who is unable to use the toilet due to mobility issues, surgery, or other health conditions. It enables patients to relieve themselves in a way that is accessible and preserves their dignity. The bedpan is designed for use while the patient is in bed, thereby providing a practical solution to their needs without requiring them to get up and walk to a rest room, which may be unsafe or impractical.

While comfort may be a consideration in that the bedpan allows patients to maintain some degree of normalcy in their routine, the fundamental purpose of the bedpan is to facilitate elimination for those who cannot use the toilet. The collection of urine for lab analysis is a specific use but typically involves different types of containers or methods that are more suitable for diagnostic purposes. Preventing bedsores is more related to patient positioning and skincare rather than the function of a bedpan. Therefore, the main focus of the bedpan is to assist those who are unable to ambulate to a toilet.