Evaluating discomfort and pain from bedpan use in patients with limited mobility

Research Project on the Risk of Discomfort, Pain and Alteration of Skin Condition in Bedpan Use by Patients and Caregivers

Observational Nantes University Hospital · NCT06332495

This study is trying to find out how much discomfort and pain bedridden patients feel when using bedpans to see if better designs are needed for their needs.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNantes University Hospital Academic / other
Locations5 sites (Nantes, Loire Atlantique and 4 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06332495 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the discomfort and pain experienced by bedridden patients with reduced mobility when using bedpans. By collecting patient feedback across various departments, the study seeks to validate the hypothesis that current bedpan designs do not meet the diverse needs of patients. Participants will be questioned during hygiene care to gather insights on their experiences. The study focuses on patients aged 18 and older who require bedpan assistance and have an estimated hospital stay of at least two days.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are bedridden patients aged 18 and older with reduced mobility who require the use of a bedpan.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments or neurological conditions that hinder pain assessment will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved bedpan designs that enhance patient comfort and reduce pain.

How similar studies have performed: While there may be limited studies specifically addressing bedpan discomfort, similar observational approaches have successfully highlighted patient care issues in other contexts.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient of legal age (age ≥ 18 years).
* Patient with reduced and very reduced mobility, bedridden requiring the use of a bedpan.
* Estimated length of hospital stay on the ward ≥ 2 days.
* Patient affiliated to a social security system.
* Patient able to understand the protocol.
* Patient having given oral non-opposition to participate.
* Patient who has received the study information note.
* Patient who had never participated in this study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with cognitive impairment preventing objective pain assessment or with neurological pathologies.
* Patients under guardianship, curatorship or safeguard of justice.

Where this trial is running

Nantes, Loire Atlantique and 4 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Nurse-Patient RelationsBedpanDiscomfortAlteration of SkinPain
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.