How do you use a disposable underpad on a bed?

1) Prepare and wash hands

• Wash your hands and put on gloves.
• Gather a disposable underpad, wipes, skin barrier cream, and a trash bag.
• Explain the step to the person. Lock the bed wheels and raise the bed to a safe height.
• This setup helps safe, clean incontinence care.

2) Check the pad and pick the right size

• Pick a disposable underpad that fits the task and the bed.
• Make sure the top sheet is soft and clean. Make sure the absorbent core is even.
• The white side up, blue side down rule helps: the soft top faces the skin; the leak‑proof backing faces the mattress.
• Check sealed edges and any adhesive strips. These help stop leaks and slips.
• If needed, choose a higher absorbency level for heavy wet.

3) Place the underpad with a safe roll

• Ask the person to bend the knee on the far side, or do a gentle log roll.
• Turn the person to the side. Keep the spine in line.
• Fold the underpad in half lengthwise. Slide the fold to the bed center.
• Place it so it runs from lower back to mid‑thigh, or under the hips where wet may pool.
• Unfold it flat. Keep the white top sheet up and the leak‑proof backing down.

4) Smooth and secure to prevent wrinkles

• Smooth the pad to remove wrinkles. Wrinkles can rub skin.
• Use adhesive strips if the pad has them. Press them to the sheet so the pad will not shift.
• Lightly tuck the sides under the mattress or draw sheet if needed, but do not over‑tuck.
• Keep sealed edges flat and clear of folds.

5) Use the pad and protect the skin

• During incontinence care, blot, do not rub. Keep the skin clean and dry.
• You can use a thin skin barrier cream on clean skin to help protect from moisture.
• Do not stack many pads. One pad works best and lets the absorbent core do its job.
• A quilted pad can spread liquid fast for better absorbency and odor control.

6) Change the pad when wet or soiled

• Change the disposable underpad after each bowel event or when more than half wet.
• If it smells, looks stained, or feels heavy, it is time to change it.
• Turn the person to the side again. Fold the top edge toward the center so the wet side faces in.
• Roll the pad from head to foot with the soiled side inside. Keep fluids away from skin and sheets.

7) Dispose and reset the bed

• Place the rolled pad in a lined trash. Follow local rules for waste with body fluids.
• Remove gloves and wash hands well.
• Wipe the mattress cover if damp. Let it dry. Then place a fresh underpad.
• Smooth the pad flat. Check comfort, absorbency level, and fit before you finish.