SOP: Diaper Changing Procedure

Diaper Changing Procedure

Department: Infant/Toddler Care
Effective Date: [Insert Date]
Prepared by: [Health & Safety Coordinator / Director]
Approved by: [Executive Director Name]
Review Date: [Insert Review Cycle]

---

 

Purpose

To establish a consistent and hygienic process for diapering that ensures the safety and well-being of children and reduces the risk of contamination and spread of illness.

---

 

Scope

This procedure applies to all staff responsible for diapering children in infant and toddler classrooms.

---

 

Policy Statement

All diaper changes must be performed in accordance with state licensing regulations and best practices for health and safety. Staff must follow this SOP without exception.

---

 

Location

• Diaper changes must only occur in designated diapering areas equipped with:

  • A non-porous changing surface.

  • Accessible handwashing sink.

  • Labeled storage for personal care items and gloves.

  • Covered, hands-free trash receptacle.

---

 

Required Supplies

Each changing station must be fully stocked with:

• Disposable gloves

• Changing paper (disposable liner)

• Disinfectant (child-safe, approved solution)

• Diapers and wipes

• Diaper cream (if provided by parent and labeled)

• Hands-free trash can with disposable liner

• Hand sanitizer (for use only if soap and water is temporarily unavailable)

---

 

Procedure

1. Preparation

• Wash your hands thoroughly.

• Put on a clean pair of disposable gloves.

• Prepare all needed materials:

  • Clean diaper

  • Wipes

  • Diaper cream (if applicable)

  • Changing paper

  • Disinfectant (to use afterward)

• Ensure the changing surface is clean and sanitized before each use.

• Lay down a new disposable liner.

---

 

2. Changing the Child

• Place the child gently on the changing surface.

• Always keep one hand on the child to prevent falls.

• Remove the soiled diaper and clean the child front to back using wipes.

• Use each wipe once and dispose of in the trash can.

• If using diaper cream:

  • Apply with a gloved hand, tissue, or disposable applicator.

  • Do not share cream between children.

• Put on a clean diaper, ensuring proper fit.

---

 

3. Disposal and Clean-Up

• Dispose of the soiled diaper, wipes, liner, and gloves in a covered, hands-free trash can.

• Disinfect the changing surface using an approved sanitizing solution. Let air dry or remain wet for the required contact time.

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

• Wash the child’s hands or assist them.

• Return the child safely to a supervised area.

---

 

4. Documentation

• Record the diaper change in the child’s daily log, including:

  • Time of change

  • Type: wet or BM (bowel movement)

  • Notes (e.g., rash observed, cream applied)

---

 

Additional Guidelines

• Never leave a child unattended on the changing table.

• Use a new pair of gloves and new liner for each child.

• Personal items (creams, diapers) must be labeled for individual use.

• Keep the diapering area free of clutter and ensure visibility from the classroom.

• Report any signs of rash, unusual stool, or concern to the Director and the parent.

---

 

Responsibilities

---

 

Compliance and Monitoring

• Diapering areas will be inspected daily.

• Supervisors will conduct weekly sanitation audits.

• Staff will receive annual training on diapering hygiene protocols.

---

 

Forms and Logs

• Daily Diapering Log

• Diaper Rash Observation Form

• Supply Refill Checklist