Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Disposable Underpad, Large
Technical/Medical Term: HCPCS Procedure Code T4541

Summary

This procedure involves the use of a large, disposable underpad designed to absorb moisture and protect surfaces from incontinence. It is commonly used in the care of individuals who experience urinary or fecal incontinence.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Urinary incontinence
• Fecal incontinence

Goals/Outcomes:

• Maintain hygiene and comfort
• Protect bedding, furniture, and other surfaces
• Reduce skin irritation or breakdown

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Involuntary bladder or bowel leakage
• Chronic incontinence conditions

Patient Criteria:

• Individuals unable to control their bladder or bowel movements
• Patients with reduced mobility or bedridden individuals

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• Ensure skin is clean and dry before application
• Gather necessary supplies (gloves, cleansing wipes)

Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• None required

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: Clean and dry the patient’s skin in the area the underpad will protect.
2. Placement: Position the underpad on the surface such as a bed or chair where protection is needed, ensuring the absorbent side is facing up.
3. Adjustment: Smooth out any wrinkles to prevent skin irritation.
4. Usage: Regularly monitor and change the underpad as soon as it becomes soiled or wet to maintain hygiene and comfort.

Tools/Equipment:

• Large disposable underpad
• Gloves
• Cleansing wipes

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not applicable

Duration

Typical Duration:

• This is an ongoing care procedure, with changing and replacement times varying based on individual needs, typically every few hours as needed.

Setting

Procedure Performed At:

• Home care
• Nursing homes
• Hospitals or other healthcare facilities

Personnel

Healthcare Professionals Involved:

• Caregivers
• Nurses
• Home health aides

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Skin irritation or dermatitis if pads are not changed frequently

Rare Risks:

• Allergic reaction to materials used in the underpad

Complications Management:

• Regular changing and monitoring
• Use of barrier creams to protect the skin

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Improved hygiene and comfort for the patient
• Protection of bedding and furniture
• Reduced risk of skin complications from prolonged exposure to moisture

Timeframe for Benefits:

• Immediate upon proper use

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Continue regular changing and monitoring
• Ensure consistent skin care routine

Recovery Time:

• Not applicable as it is a maintenance procedure

Restrictions/Follow-Up:

• No specific restrictions
• Regular assessments by healthcare providers to ensure proper usage

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Reusable underpads
• Adult diapers

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Reusable underpads: Cost-effective but require cleaning and maintenance
• Adult diapers: Easier for mobile patients but may not be as comfortable for bedridden patients

Patient Experience

Expected Experience:

• Minimal discomfort while using the underpad
• Immediate relief from the moisture and protection of surfaces

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• Routine skin care and monitoring to prevent discomfort
• Use of barrier creams or ointments to protect the skin