How to Care for Your Stoma: Must-Have Ostomy Products
Life can seem difficult and downright demanding right after an ostomy procedure, whether you’re a patient or simply taking care of a loved one. Although it can sometimes feel isolating it is important to realize that help is always available.
Ostomies are actually much more common than you might think. 1 out of every 500 Americans live with a stoma. This is a surgical opening that can be created at various sites in the abdomen to divert waste from the body.
Having the best quality supplies available at your disposal allows you a much better quality of life. A complete ostomy kit gives you the peace of mind you need to engage in all the activities you enjoyed before the procedure! Here’s a short checklist of must-have ostomy products;
1. Ostomy Barrier Ring
It is important to prevent caustic substances or waste from coming into direct contact with the skin around your stoma. The barrier ring, or seal, acts as a true shield for your skin, protecting it against discharge or leakages and reducing risks of infection.
You can access a variety of ostomy barrier rings as well as different shapes that can be molded to your stoma for extra protection and to keep the ostomy pouch secure against your skin.
Pro Tip: While you are looking for a great quality ostomy barrier ring don’t forget to choose a gentle adhesive remover. These are wipes or ointments you can apply to gently remove the ostomy barrier seals from your skin without hurting or irritating it.
2. Underpads
You may not always be in a convenient location when you realize you need to change that ostomy bag. In that case, it is important to carry around underpads. These are disposable coverings that help you protect furniture or even your own clothes from the stoma output.
It is much easier to clean up after changing your ostomy bag if you have underpads ready. You can opt for reusable and disposable options, depending on your preference. All in all, if you are looking for a sense of security or simply a little bit of convenience, these are a great investment.
While you are searching for reliable underpads, add in a sturdy set of gloves too! Although changing an ostomy bag isn’t that difficult and rarely a disaster, it can surely get messy sometimes. You can opt for gloves if you don’t want to wash your hands after each step.
3. Stoma Lubricant
Ever heard of pancaking? It is a term that is quite common in the ostomy community and it refers to the fecal matter that often gathers right at the top of your ostomy bag near the stoma.
Adding some lubricant inside a new ostomy bag before applying it can help you avoid this building. In addition to that, these lubricants often contain deodorizers which means you can sidestep those unwanted smells often associated with ostomy bag changes. For an added layer of protection against these odors, you can also invest in an ostomy pouch deodorizer.
4. The Ostomy Pouch
When searching for reliable ostomy supplies, this has to be your number one concern. That is fair enough since the ostomy bag or pouch is what holds your stoma output for a considerable period, anywhere from a couple of hours to a few days depending on the type.
You can go for a drainable pouch or a closed one. Even if you opt for a drainable pouch, ostomy experts recommend changing an ostomy bag every 5-7 days. Depending on where you live or the condition of your skin surrounding the stoma area, you might need to change it earlier.
5. Gauze Sponges
Whenever you change that ostomy bag, it is important to keep your stoma covered. Since it is an open site it is essential to keep it protected against bacteria and viruses in the area around you. The gauze also protects the surrounding skin from discharge.
These gauze sponges are also quite easy to remove. Whenever you think you are ready with the new ostomy bag, simply remove it and start the process of application.
Your Comfort First
Understand your condition and make sure you stay in touch with your primary healthcare provider. Your skin, stoma type, as well as your health condition and mobility levels all play an active role in determining the type of supplies you need.
If you are recovering from a stoma surgery remember that it takes up to eight weeks for your body to heal from the procedure. During that time it is important to stay in touch with your doctor and follow their advice to make the process easier on your body as well as your mind!