Post-surgery stoma supplies can be a daunting topic to bring up in a conversation. There are numerous brands, styles, and types of convexity to choose from. You might come across a product you hadn’t considered before. If you’ve had problems with your ostomy system in the past, you might look at it differently now. This article is about ostomy care products and will help you learn more about them.
The availability of some ostomy supplies is limited to the hospital. For the most part, these products assist you in wound care and help you adjust to your new lifestyle following surgery. Having a wide selection of ostomy supplies is essential. Even better if your insurance covers your ostomy supplies.
If you have had an ostomy procedure, the hospital will usually give you some stoma supplies to get you started. You are, however, under no obligation to use these specific brands or styles if you are dissatisfied with them. An ostomy system that leaks, is uncomfortable, irritates the skin, or stinks should always be avoided.
Speak with your doctor or nurse if you need assistance determining the best setting. This article will teach you about the essential ostomy products you will require daily.
Support Garments for Ostomies
An ostomy support garment is a fabric belt that is wide enough to wrap around the body. It helps keep your ostomy system attached to your body. This is a great option for people who have hernias, are bloated, are unwell, or whose bags rub against their clothing.
An ostomy support garment may be able to assist you with whatever issue you’re experiencing. The support garment helps to smooth out any wrinkles caused by the pouch under your clothing. This article is here to answer any questions you may have about these stoma supplies, which are not always covered by insurance. With an ostomy, you already have a lot on your plate, so the last thing you need is more discomfort in your day-to-day activities. These items are made to make your life easier and more stress-free.
One-Piece Pouches
Ostomy bag systems with one-piece skin barriers provide the best possible wound care. When it’s time for a new skin barrier and bag, simply throw them away.
One-piece ostomy systems are more convenient for people with visual impairments, arthritis, and other conditions that affect hand strength and coordination, such as Parkinson’s. However, removing the skin barrier every time the bag is full could increase the risk of skin irritation or infection.
A one-piece system includes the wafer (a circular or square that attaches to the stoma and creates a landing pad to stick the drainable or closed pouch) and the ostomy pouch cohesively. There’s no need to use two different things for stoma bag care. Hence, many people find it useful because it is less cumbersome. After cutting it open, you insert your stoma.
Once you’ve applied the single piece to your skin, you’re good to go. You can also drain the bag when filled up. Closed pouches, in which the contents are disposed of together with the pouch, are also available. Because these can’t be drained, they are not recommended for daily use. Wearing time can be extended thanks to the drainable pouch. Changing the wafer around your stoma more often increases the risk of skin breakdown and irritation.
Lubricants and Deodorants for Ostomies
Ostomy odour control is a common concern for new ostomy operated individuals. Nobody wants to smell bad, whether it’s from urine or stool, and thanks to modern technology, ostomy odours are a thing of the past.
Wound care products for ostomies, which come in many forms, are proven effective at removing unpleasant odours from ostomy appliances. Emptying the bag is when you should smell any foul odours. If you notice odours at any other time, it indicates that your ostomy bag or system is malfunctioning or leaking. Ostomy deodorants with lubricating properties help keep stool from sticking to the pouch’s brim.
Ostomy deodorant is a simple way to keep your ostomy output at a comfortable level. An odourless gel is filled into your pouch before attaching the bag or using the one-piece system. A small amount goes a long way in eliminating odours and keeping the interior of the bag slick, allowing waste to drain. Even though the majority of drainable and closed bags include charcoal filters, using ostomy deodorant can help you adjust to your ostomy.
Skin Prep Wipes, Adhesive Wipes, Removers, and Other Skin Swabs
Before you use your wafer or one-piece ostomy system, you can use a variety of stoma supplies. However, not all styles (such as wipes vs. swabs) are covered by your insurance. To begin, wipe clean skin with a skin prep wipe. An adhesive layer is formed on the skin’s surface as a result. Not everyone needs this, but it can be useful in certain circumstances.
After a while, the wafers can be removed from the skin.
An adhesive remover swab will greatly speed up the process of removing it. It is easy to remove any glue residue from your skin with these wipes. Soap and warm water are all you need to get ready for the next ostomy bag or wafer.
Stoma Caps
The stoma caps provide a waterproof barrier to keep your stoma dry. No output can be held in its small size. Stoma caps can be put on with either a one- or a two-piece ostomy system, depending on your preference. On the other hand, there’s no place to put anything. Allow for up to 20-30 minutes of bag-free time while showering, swimming or doing other intimate things.
There is a risk of a leak or blowout if you don’t get out of the situation quickly. It’s well worth the risk to gain a little control over your stoma. The use of stoma caps and stoma bag care products will help you live a healthy and happy life.
For a more substantial introduction to wound care products, visit Coloplast Singapore to familiarise yourself with the wound care process.