Ostomy How To Guide
A one-piece ostomy bag or pouch is a simple system in which the skin barrier and pouch are a single unit. Applying an ostomy pouch for the first time may be challenging, but the process will get easier.
A two-piece ostomy bag or pouch is a convenient system in which the pouch can be detached from the skin barrier. This means you can change the ostomy bag without having to remove and replace the skin barrier every time. A two-piece ostomy pouch can be a good choice if you want to reduce skin irritation or change pouches rapidly.
Emptying an ostomy pouch may sound difficult, but it’s a simple routine that you can learn with a little practice.
An ostomy barrier ring is a flexible, stretchy ring placed around the stoma. A barrier ring protects the peristomal skin and ensures a tight fit with your pouching system.
Pouch lubricating drops, also called lubricating deodorant, have a few important benefits. Lubricating drops help make sure that the contents of your ostomy pouch flow to the bottom of the pouch, preventing blockage or leakage issues. Pouch lubricant also makes it easier to empty your ostomy pouch and reduces odor when doing so.
Stoma paste protects the skin around your stoma, preventing irritation and increasing wear time. It also can fill in gaps between your skin barrier and stoma if you have an uneven skin surface, or a stoma that is retracted or flush with your skin.
Stoma powder is a non-medicated powder (usually made of cellulose, pectin and gelatin) that’s applies to the skin around the stoma. It absorbs moisture from raw, weeping skin, helping it to heal.
An ostomy belt is an elastic accessory that attaches to your pouching system, helping to hold it in the right position. Ostomy belts can prevent leaks and provide a sense of security.
One of the most important — and the toughest — parts of ostomy care is keeping the skin around your stoma healthy and intact. Even a small leak from your ostomy pouching system can cause painful skin irritation. When skin is damaged, it becomes harder to secure the pouching system, thus creating a cycle that can make skin problems worse. If you have sensitive skin, some ostomy products may cause irritation as well. This online peristomal skin assessment guide can help you understand what’s causing skin problems.
When the skin around your stoma gets damaged, it’s hard to get it to heal. Applying your ostomy pouching system can irritate skin even more, making it difficult to adhere. This can cause leaks, which further damages the skin.