Bedside Commode

answering nature's call.

Have you considered the bedside commode? It is quite popular and quite necessary for many!

Your bathroom has become a necessity that you may take for granted. A knee joint replacement or recent stroke can make your bathroom a tough place to visit despite physical therapy exercises.

When all else fails despite strength improvement efforts, a 3-in-1 bedside commode may be your best temporary solution

When nature calls, there is no call waiting. Your internal plumbing doesn't stop... so if you can't get to the commode, bring the commode to you!

I would rather see this type of bathroom safety equipment by your bed and see it migrate to the bathroom over time.

Remember, though, commodes are not all created equally. Here are some take away tips before you shop.

• A 3-in-1 Commode is generally covered by Medicare with a physician's order.


• Consider the weight that will sit on your commode. Heavy weights require a sturdier commode. Fudging on this point can be costly and fatal. Bathroom safety equipment must meet needs safely!


• 3 uses! Over the commode, in the shower as a shower chair, or beside your bed. (Most bathtubs are too narrow these days).


• Most commodes have adjustable legs to adjust height.


• Be sure your commode or seat raiser will fit your toilet bowl. Round or oval? Safety equipment must be safe!


• Some commodes have a drop arm on them. Will you be scooting from a bed to the commode? If so, get the drop arm commode.


• What's the hollow bucket with no bottom in it? Use that if your 3-in-1 goes over your regular commode. It guides everything into the bowl! Liquid on the floor spells disaster.


• Take your regular toilet lid all the way off to scoot your bedside commode back further if quarters are tight. You don't want a piece of safety equipment tripping anyone!


• Renting a 3-in-1 is an option at most Durable Medical Equipment stores.


• You may only need a toilet seat riser or just the chair arms. This is less bulky but likely more expensive as Medicare generally won't cover these items. They are also less adjustable.


• Start doing a sit to stand squat exercise over and over for quad strengthening. You will be surprised at how quickly your current commode becomes manageable again.


• Call around in your community. Many cities (even small ones) have some community center that manages donated durable medical equipment. Good will or other thrift stores are a good place to start. Be cautious when buying used bathroom safety equipment. There may be an overlooked reason as to why it was donated in the first place. Check for rust, cracks, missing hardware etc.




simple solutions in a nutshell.

Summarized, you can elevate or make commode transfers successful in the following, practical ways:
• Use a seat riser
• Use a seat riser with arm holds
• Use arm holds only
• Use a 3-in-1 commode




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