Changing a brief can feel like one of the more challenging parts of caregiving, both physically and emotionally. It is okay if it takes time to feel comfortable with it. With practice, this becomes more familiar, and a few small techniques can make it easier on both of you.

Because this activity involves rolling your loved one onto their side, it pairs naturally with the movements in Part 4: Repositioning for Comfort and Skin Protection. Reading that article first may help.

Before You Begin

• Gather your supplies: gloves, wipes or a soft cloth, a clean brief, and a protective ointment if you have one.
• Create a warm, private space.
• Have a draw sheet ready, if available — it makes the rolling motions easier.
• Let your loved one know what you are about to do.

Step by Step

1. Put on your gloves.
2. Gently open the brief.
3. Clean the front of the body first, using wipes or a soft cloth. Move slowly and keep your loved one comfortable.
4. Help your loved one roll onto their side by bending one knee and gently guiding their shoulder and hip.
5. Clean the skin on the back and between the buttocks.
6. Take a moment to check the skin for redness, and apply a protective ointment if needed.
7. Roll the soiled brief inward to contain it, and tuck it under the body.
8. Place the clean brief under the hips.
9. Gently roll your loved one back, and to the other side if needed, to fully remove the soiled brief.
10. Pull the clean brief into place, smooth it out, and secure the tabs so it fits snugly but not too tightly.

Moving slowly and speaking calmly throughout helps your loved one feel more at ease. Each step you take supports their comfort, dignity and well-being.

Please call your care team if any of these happen

• Redness or sores that do not go away when you reposition.
• Broken skin or any open areas.
• A sudden change in the color, smell or amount of urine or stool.
• Skin that feels warmer, swollen or tender in one area.

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At MJHS, we value both personal and professional caregivers and recognize the critical work you do. That is why we have created these online caregiving resources to help you through this crucial time in your life.

If you need additional help and support caring for your loved one, please feel free to contact MJHS. We can recommend other care options available to you through one of our programs.