“I had an accident!” are three words caregivers hear often. 

When someone you are caring for has incontinence and experiences leakages, it can be a chaotic time until they and any areas involved are cleaned. Planning ahead and having the right products and supplies readily available in such situations can be very helpful in minimizing confusion and stress.

If you are responsible for helping with clean up, NorthShore Care Supply has a variety of supplies and tips to make the task easier.

Stay Calm & Practice Good Hygiene

First, take care of everyone's personal needs immediately after an accident happens. The person managing incontinence may feel ashamed and embarrassed and the person taking care of that person may feel uncomfortable. It can be a very emotionally difficult time for all involved. Keep in mind accidents happen and will happen and it may be easier if everyone remains calm and as positive as possible.

Here are some examples of positive statements to say: 

• "I'm here for you"

• "Don't worry, we're going to get this cleaned up right away"

• "Let's get you out of these wet clothes" 

Cleaning Product Recommendations

At NorthShore Care Supply, we have nearly 20 years of experience helping individuals manage incontinence. Our recommendations for cleaning products and supplies include:

Cleanups

• NorthShore Supreme Quilted Wipes - The most durable cleansing wipes offered by NorthShore; ideal for heavy urinary and bowel leaks. Supreme Quilted wipes are extra long and offer a soft quilted material with aloe and calendula to keep skin moisturized and protected.
  

• DiscreetShield Disposal Bags - Large disposal bags offer tie handles to securely enclose contents while offering a fresh scent to contain strong smells.
  

Bedding Protection

• NorthShore MagicSorb Disposable Underpads - Our most durable disposable underpad that wicks away wetness from large voids and locks in odors.
  
  

Bladder and Bowel Products 

• NorthShore MEGAMAX Briefs- The most reliable brief for individuals managing heavy to severe incontinence. MEGAMAX offers up to 12 hours of protection and can handle both urine and bowel leaks with its massively absorbent core, tall leak guards and heavy-duty plastic exterior.
  
  

• NorthShore Supreme Briefs - This flagship brief offers superior protection for moderate urine and bowel containment with up to 8 hours of protection.
  
  
  

• NorthShore GoSupreme Underwear - NorthShore's most form-fitting underwear offers a low-profile design for a discreet fit. With improved leg elastics, this protective underwear is ideal for restless and side sleepers.
  
  

Removing Solid Bowel Movements from Sheets & Mattresses

Step 1: Dispose of any solid fecal matter in the toilet. 

Step 2: Use a specialized enzyme-based cleaner on stained areas. The spray can be used as a pre-spotter. For the best results, let the spray soak in for about 10 minutes. 

Step 3: Blot the area(s) with a paper towel.

Step 4: For heavier solids, use a clean cloth or cleaning rag and scrub the area gently. Start from the outside and move toward the center to avoid spreading the stain. 

Step 5: Repeat steps as needed until the stain is removed. 

After cleaning, disinfect the area and remove any odors that may still be lingering. 

How to Disinfect An Area After a Bowel Accident

Once cleaning is finished, get rid of any lingering odors. A natural way of disinfecting the area is using a mixture of white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Put this solution on a cloth or sponge and blot the area. Allow the solution to sit for several minutes. After 10 minutes, blot with plain water and a clean cloth. Remember to let air circulate the area. 

Make sure all rags are washed in hot water with bleach. To protect mattresses, consider getting a waterproof mattress protector. 

Shop Incontinence Products for Bladder & Bowel Protection or call (800) 563-0161 for personalized help and assistance.

Regardless of capacity, an absorbent product must be changed immediately following a bowel movement.