Whilst using a commode seems simple, there are safety considerations.  

General Safety Considerations

The Brakes - Whenever you go to sit on, or stand from, a wheeled commode chair, make sure all the wheels are locked, by putting all castor 4 brakes on, to stabilise the unit and reduce fall risks.                                                                                                            

The Footrest - Always ensure the footrest is upright whenever the unit is stationery - there are no legs on our footrest to hold any weight, so there is a 'tip-over' danger.

The benefit of leg-free supports is that there are no obstacles to hit shins, or to trip on, whilst carrying out activities of daily living. 

The footrest is there to support the occupants' feet, to stop them dragging on the floor when moving the unit.                                       

The Commode As a Bedroom Toilet - Our Commode has many applications. It can be used in the bedroom as a toilet, to reduce the risk of falls going to the bathroom, especially at night. see our Blog 

 How to use our Commode as a Bedroom Toilet for specific information.

The sturdy 6 litre plastic bucket, with lid, is easy to clean. It is easy to remove from the Commode unit for emptying, from the top and from the back of the unit.

The Commode Over the Toilet - It can be used over the toilet for those who cannot walk to the toilet, or for those who would benefit from a bit more toilet seat height. Frailness, breathlessness, hip or leg issues are just some of the situations the commode can make life a bit simpler. 

Remove the seat insert and the bucket before using over the toilet. Make sure the brakes are on and the footrest is up as soon as the Commode is in position.

The Commode to help with Showering - ideal for those who are short of breath with exertion, frail, have loss of normal strength, hip and leg trauma/surgery/other issues, the commode can be used to assist someone to the bathroom with minimal exertion on their part. 

Independent showering - Remove the bucket, and place the Commode in the shower recess so the seat is facing the door of the shower unit. Lock all the brakes securely to avoid rolling on the uneven surface. Ensure the footrest is in the upward position. Use a non-slip bath mat in front of the seat, for your feet, to avoid slipping when standing up.                                     

Assisted showering - The bathroom is wet and slippery, so it is advised you are prepared for both yours', and the person you are showering, safety. Make sure your foot wear is appropriate and non-slip.                                     

Before the commode is occupied, the chair insert. If the person is continent then remove the bucket, otherwise leave it in place until you get into the bathroom. it may be easier if the occupant gets out of the commode until it is positioned in the shower recess, to protect the assistant's back.

• Place the commode into the shower recess, so the front of the commode is facing the recess exit. This makes access easier, for washing and in case of an accident or emergency.
•  Place a non-slip mat on the floor in front of the seat, so when the person stands they will not slip over. 
• Put all four (4) brakes on securely. 
• When the person is walked into the shower unit, position them so that the back of their knees are touching the chair, making sure they can feel the chair behind their legs. Ask them to bend slightly forward at the waist, and slowly lower themselves onto the seat, using the armrests for support. Both feet should always be able to touch the floor.                                                                       
• If you are wheeling the commode into the shower unit with the person on it, remove the bucket and push the Commode in the shower, making sure the person is facing the door of the shower unit. 
• Lock all the brakes securely to avoid rolling on the uneven surface. 
• Lift the footrest into an upright position. 
• Use a non-slip bath mat in front of the seat to avoid slipping when standing up.

General Post Showering Information                                                                             

• It may be safer, and easier, to start towel drying from the stool before exiting the shower recess. 
• Maintain the sitting position until everything that can be done sitting is done. This will conserve energy by reducing the extent of bending and extra movement, and reduce the risk of slippage from wet hands and a wet body.

Have a look at our Commode or Shower Stool (suits bath and shower) or Shower Chair for more information on Bathing Aids if you are not sure what would be suitable for your needs.

Please Note:- This is basic advice and may not be suitable for your situation. If you are not sure, or feel unsafe with showering/ bathing, see your Doctor, Nurse or Rehab consultant about specific issues and concerns.

For more information, see our How to Clean, and Maintain the Commode          

The most dangerous place in the home                                                          

Disclaimer: This is general information only, to assist you. You should contact you Health Care Professional for more information about what item is better suited, or for information on how you should use the items, especially if you have a condition or illness. If you have any symptoms, see your Gp or see our helpful Health Information for Nurse Triage contact numbers. Or call 000 if there is an emergency.