A project to help patients regain independence is being rolled out across Somerset hospitals.
The quality improvement scheme, which focuses on reducing patient deconditioning during hospital stays, has delivered strong early results at Crewkerne and Wincanton Community hospitals.
By encouraging clinically able patients to get out of bed and use the toilet instead of bedpans or bottles, the scheme aims to maintain mobility, dignity and independence through small but meaningful daily activities.
Tania Collin, hospital matron and project lead, said: "This quality improvement project is trying to achieve a reduction in deconditioning, which has such a devastating impact on elderly patients in particular and can affect their recovery, discharge and future care needs.
"It's linked to dignity and confidence, which I feel is exceptionally important – I don't think any of us would choose to use a bedpan behind a curtain.
"It's so undignified and it's really important that we address this."
Launched at Wincanton Hospital in June and later introduced in Crewkerne, the scheme has already led to an 88 per cent reduction in bedpan use and an 86 per cent drop in bottle use.
Seven out of 10 patients improved their mobility during their stay, while the remaining patients maintained their level of independence.
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The project is now being extended to Frome and West Mendip community hospitals, with plans to expand more widely across Somerset.
Longer-term ambitions include introducing the approach at Musgrove Park Hospital and Yeovil Hospital.
Ms Collin said the project is "all about valuing patients' time, helping them maintain their independence and treating them with dignity and respect."
Feedback from patients has been overwhelmingly positive.
One patient said: "Walking to the toilet feels like normality."
Another added: "So much better and helping my walking."
The scheme has also improved teamwork on wards, with healthcare assistants, nurses and therapists working more closely together.
Ms Collin recently presented the project at the 2026 #EndPJParalysis Global Summit.
The international event brings together healthcare professionals from across the world who shared examples of innovative work to reduce deconditioning and improve patient outcomes.
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