How often this occurs will depend on several factors (the person’s health, etc. ). However, plan on changing (or assisting if needed) a teen diaper about five to eight times each day. If possible, remind them to change themselves if they can do so. Create a changing schedule and adjust it as necessary for additional dirty diapers.
They may resist your need to check if they need a diaper change, so be sensitive to their feelings. Respect their privacy and dignity as you check. Consider developing a code phrase, such as: “Do you need a break?” or “It doesn’t smell like roses here - do you need to get some fresh air?” Prepare to change or have them change the diaper as soon as possible. Delays in a cheaper diaper can contribute to the development of urinary tract infections, skin irritation, and rashes. [1] X Research source
If you’re around other people, say, “Excuse us for a moment, we’ll be right back,” and leave it at that. If you have options, choose the bathroom stall with extra handrails and/or purse shelves (for changing supplies). [2] X Research source
A disposable underpad is just one of many options to provide a barrier between the teen and the changing surface. You can also use a folded shower curtain, a waterproof picnic blanket, or a homemade padded changing mattress covered in soft vinyl. It’s easy to forget or run out of a necessary item. Do a quick inventory of your diaper bag before heading out to ensure you have everything you need. If you’re in a public restroom and can’t set out the items, leave them in the bag and pull them out as needed. The fewer supplies that are contaminated with germs, the better.
For a laying-down change, place an underpad on the ground or bed. If a changing table is available, clean the plastic cover with a disinfecting wipe. For a seated change, place the underpad on a chair seat or bench. For a standing change, place the underpad on the ground with reach access to a wall, if needed for support.
Release the diaper side-tabs while holding the diaper in place. Use your other hand to wipe the area clean, starting at the back. Once it’s clean, pull down the diaper, wipe the front area clean with a fresh wipe, then dispose of the soiled diaper and wipes. If the teen needs support standing, they can grab a handrail (if available), use a walker, touch the wall or grip your shoulders for balance. If you think the diaper is heavily soiled, use caution in this position as it will be easier to get clothing dirty or make a mess in general.
Have them stay seated as you release the diaper side tabs. Ask them to lift up, then pull the diaper down. Wipe the back area, then the front. Pull out the diaper from under them and dispose of it, along with the wipes. Be aware that sitting position requires a degree of upper-body control on the teen’s part. They can rest seated directly on the underpad between movements, if needed, however.
Gently push the teen’s knees chest-ward by applying pressure with your forearm behind the knees. Wipe them clean from front to back, placing used wipes in the diaper. When done, pull the soiled diaper out. When removing clothes, look for signs that the diaper has leaked. If they got wet or soiled, replace them with clean ones. This includes dirty plastic pants, which you can also change. Put all wet or dirty clothes in a plastic bag.
Use wipes that are free of alcohol or added fragrances to reduce skin irritation. When you are done with cleaning, place the soiled wipes within the soiled diaper and fold them up for disposal. Make sure to wipe the teen from front to back. This prevents the spread of fecal bacteria and is especially important when changing teen girls and transgender boys.
You can buy diaper cream in the form of an aerosol can. Your teen may prefer this option since you would not need to use your hands to apply the cream. If you see a diaper rash that is dark red or heavily raised, seek medical advice. Long-term rashes can get infected and lead to other health problems.
In the standing position, you’ll need to use one hand to hold the diaper in place and another to secure the tabs. In the sitting position, you will need to have the teen raise up to place the fresh diaper between their legs and secure it. In the laying down position, you will want to keep their knees bent as you place the diaper, releasing them after it is in place, then you secure the tabs.
If you feel the need to lash out or say something negative, take a deep breath and count to five.
Ask the teen for suggestions on improving the process and reducing their anxiety or embarrassment.
Channel the teen’s aggression into the diapering process by asking them to assist with preparing the supplies or the room. You could say, “Look how strong you are. Could you use some of your strength to help me do this? It will go much faster. ” Tell the teen that you’re only trying to help them and that it’s not okay for them to hurt you in the process. You might say, “I understand that you’re frustrated, but hitting me is wrong, and you need to stop. ” If you feel physically in danger, stop the diapering process and try again after a 15-minute cooldown period.
Offer an incentive for cooperative behavior in the future. For example, say, “If we have a week with no arguments over diaper changes, we’ll go out to your favorite restaurant. ” Change it into a positive situation for both you and your teen. Use the time to talk about everything else than the diaper change.
