How to Care for an Ostomy at Home

Caring for an ostomy at home can seem daunting at first, but with the right information and support, it can become a manageable part of your daily routine. This guide will provide you with essential tips and best practices for effective ostomy care, ensuring you maintain your health and confidence.

An ostomy is a surgically created opening in the abdomen that allows waste to leave the body. This procedure might be necessary due to conditions like Crohn’s disease, colorectal cancer, or other digestive or urinary system issues. There are different types of ostomies, including colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy, depending on the body part involved. Understanding your specific type is crucial for proper care.

Essential Supplies for Ostomy Care

Before we dive into the care process, it’s important to have the necessary supplies on hand:

• Ostomy Bags: These come in one-piece or two-piece systems.
• Skin Barriers: Protect the skin around the stoma from irritation.
• Cleansing Products: Mild soap and water or pre-moistened wipes.
• Adhesive Remover: To gently remove the ostomy bag.
• Measuring Guide: To ensure the opening of the skin barrier is the right size.

Step-by-Step Ostomy Care

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary supplies within reach. This helps you stay organized and minimizes the risk of contamination.

2. Wash Your Hands

Clean hands are crucial to prevent infection. Use soap and water or hand sanitizer before and after changing your ostomy bag.

3. Empty the Ostomy Bag

If the bag is full, empty it before removing it. This reduces the risk of spills and makes the process cleaner.

4. Remove the Ostomy Bag

Gently peel away the adhesive from the skin, starting at the top and moving downward. Use adhesive remover if necessary to avoid skin irritation.

5. Clean the Stoma and Surrounding Skin

Use warm water and a mild soap to clean the stoma and the surrounding area. Avoid using alcohol or harsh chemicals, as these can irritate the skin. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.

6. Measure and Cut the Skin Barrier

Measure the stoma using the guide and cut the skin barrier to fit snugly around it. An appropriately sized barrier prevents leaks and protects the skin from irritation.

7. Apply the Skin Barrier and Ostomy Bag

Place the skin barrier around the stoma, ensuring it adheres well to the skin. Attach the ostomy bag to the barrier. If using a two-piece system, ensure the bag is securely connected to the barrier.

8. Secure the Bag

Once the bag is in place, ensure it is securely fastened to prevent leaks. Check for any folds or creases that might compromise the seal.

Tips for Daily Ostomy Care

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your digestive system functioning well.
• Monitor Your Diet: Some foods might cause gas or odor. Identify and manage your diet accordingly.
• Check for Skin Irritation: Regularly inspect the skin around the stoma for signs of irritation or infection.
• Change the Bag Regularly: Change your ostomy bag as recommended by your healthcare provider, or sooner if you notice leaks or odor.
• Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity. Consult with your healthcare provider about the best exercises for your condition.

When to Seek Medical Help

While most ostomy care can be managed at home, it’s important to know when to seek medical help:

• Severe Skin Irritation: Persistent redness, swelling, or sores around the stoma.
• Blockage: No output from the stoma for several hours, accompanied by abdominal pain or nausea.
• Bleeding: Significant bleeding from the stoma.
• Infection: Signs of infection such as fever, pus, or an unpleasant odor from the stoma.

Conclusion

Caring for an ostomy at home requires a combination of the right supplies, proper techniques, and regular monitoring. With time and practice, these tasks will become a routine part of your daily life. Remember, you are not alone — support is available from healthcare providers, support groups, and resources like SNS Medical. By following these guidelines, you can maintain your health, confidence, and quality of life.