Patient's question:
My father collapsed in bed due to a brain thrombosis and is unable to take care of his own urination and defecation. He can only go to the toilet when family members lift him, which is very inconvenient. We have also tried using diapers for him, but due to his body deformation, they are not very effective. We cannot let him urinate or defecate in bed either, as it causes discomfort to the patient and makes it difficult to wash the bedding. What should be done about the urination and defecation of a paralyzed patient?Doctor's answer:
Always keep the bed sheets and clothes dry, clean, smooth, and wrinkle-free. Change them immediately when they get wet to prevent complications caused by excrement irritation. If there is redness around the anus, apply zinc oxide ointment to relieve it. Alternatively, use soft paper or clean old cloth to separate both buttocks to prevent friction and further worsening of the wound's cracking. The patient's room should be properly ventilated to maintain fresh air. Male patients can use large food storage bags to cover the penis, removing them promptly after urination. For bowel movements, consider using nursing pads or diapers due to the patient's long-term bedridden state. Lower limb mobilization is also necessary to prevent deep vein thrombosis. Regularly change positions and tap the back to prevent atelectasis pneumonia.