Description of common ostomy products and when to use them.
Whenever you are looking after someone with a stoma, the most important thing to ensure is that they have a good pouch that sticks on well to their skin. However, there are instances whenever people do need to use some accessories. We thought it would be a good idea to share some of the most common accessories people use.
Seal/washer
If the stoma causes leakages, the ostomate is developing sore skin on a regular basis or has uneven skin around their stoma, a seal or a washer works really well. The idea is that you stretch it out to the shape and size of the stoma, put it around the stoma, down onto the peristomal skin and then you attached the pouch over on top of the seal.
It really helps to heal and protect sore peristomal skin and prevents other problems developing as well. A seal works well as a preventative as well as a protector.
Paste
Paste would be used if the ostomate has a dip or a crease that needs to be filled in and to even out uneven skin contours. It works really well to help ensure that the pouch is adhered securely.
Adhesive Remover Spray
This breaks the seal between the pouch and the skin and allows easy removal of the bag.
Another common accessory is the adhesive remover wipe. The wipes work very similar to the remover spray in that it breaks the seal between the pouch and skin.
Stoma Powder
Stoma powder helps to absorbs moisture and form a barrier for excoriated or weeping skin.
Flange Extenders
Flange extenders within the last couple of years are a recent development, also known as half-moons or banana shapes, but the idea behind them is that it improves and increases the security around the pouch and onto the skin.
They are useful if the ostomate has a parastomal hernia and you need an extra width to the adhesive to ensure that the pouch is well secured.
Stoma Belt
Some pouches will have a hook at 3 and 9 o clock on the flange where an elasticated belt can be attached for extra comfort and security.
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