So your doctor recommended you or a loved one get a commode chair following an injury or illness to help in your rehab and recovery. But what the heck is a commode chair? The definition of a commode chair is”a portable toilet that can be placed at the bedside of a patient whose activity is limited; these are often used in the home when the patient is too debilitated to reach the bathroom. The receptacle for waste can be removed and emptied.” While commode chairs are mostly used inside the bedroom there are a variety of different commodes such as
- Shower Commodes
- Portable Commodes
- Bariatric Commodes
Now that you know what a commode is how do you know which one is best for your individual situation? In this article will cover what a commode is, benefits of using a commode, and the different types of commodes.
Benefits of Using a Commode
A commode chair is designed to act as a second toilet for individuals who are recovering from an injury or illness and are unable to walk to the bathroom. By using a bedside commode during your recovery you lower your risk of falling and re-injuring yourself. A commode also makes it easier for caretakers to effectively care for there patients without having to transfer their patient all the way to the bathroom. In some instances, the existing bathroom’s doorway is to narrow for an individuals wheelchair to go through safely. In cases like these, a bedside commode is an affordable option compared to remolding the existing bathroom.
Different Kinds Of Commode Chairs
There are a variety of different commode chairs designed to accommodate every individual's needs. Before you purchase a commode you should consider the following
Maximum weight capacity that the commode can hold
- Seat Width
- Do you need a commode with wheels?
- How long will you be needing the commode?
- Are you a caretaker?
- Bariatric Commode
Bariatric Commode: Like all bariatric products a bariatric commode is designed to accommodate individuals that are over 3oo lbs. Unlike regular bedside commodes that can only accommodate up to 300 pounds, most bariatric commodes are designed for individuals up to 600lbs. Unlike traditional commodes that feature smaller seats, a bariatric commode features a wider seat that allows you to sit comfortably without feeling confined. Many bariatric commodes also come with a drop arm for easy transfer from a wheelchair or hospital bed.
Portable commode
Portable Commode: Portable commode chairs are designed to be easily maneuvered and pushed by a caretaker. Most portable commodes are lightweight and feature 4 wheels and can be easily pushed over a carpet, tile, and wood flooring.
Shower commode
Shower Commode: Designed to be used specifically in showers, shower commodes work as both a shower chair and a commode chair. Most shower commode chair are made out of lightweight rustproof aluminum, and waterproof material so that you do not have to worry about them deteriorating over time. In addition shower, commode chairs feature 4 wheels so that a caretaker can easily maneuver there a patient in and out of the shower.
