In this article, we will discuss how to change a urostomy pouch at home. Since it can be hard to change an ostomy pouch after getting discharged from the hospital, you may find the information in this post helpful.
Changing your urostomy pouching system
An ostomy pouching system typically consists of a wafer and a bag. The wafer has an adhesive-laden side that goes against the peristomal skin. There are two types of ostomy pouches: one-piece ostomy pouch and two-piece ostomy pouch. A one-piece ostomy pouch is a single unit combining both the wafer and the bag. Meanwhile, a two-piece ostomy pouch allows the user to detach the bag without taking the wafer off the peristomal skin.
It is crucial to change your ostomy pouch twice every week. The best time to change the urostomy pouch is the morning before eating or drinking anything. At that time, your stoma is not much functional.
You can change your ostomy pouch the way you feel comfortable. You can do it while sitting or standing, depending on your preferences. While you can change your ostomy bag anywhere, the washroom is usually the most appropriate place for this procedure. You can also shower or bath after taking the ostomy pouch off.
Supplies required for the procedure
First and foremost, gather all the supplies that you will need while changing the ostomy pouch. Those supplies include the following.
- Adhesive remover pads or trays
- Paper towels, clean washcloths, or gauze pads
- Pen or marker
- Measuring guide
- Scissors
- New ostomy pouch
Instructions
1. First of all, clean your hands using soap and water. Make sure to dry your hands after washing using a disposable towel. Turn off the faucet using the same towel.
2. Now, empty your existing urostomy pouch. It will require you to open the spout at the bottom of the pouch. It will let urine in the pouch flow out of the spout. While squeezing urine out of the bag, make sure that everything flowing out goes into the toilet. Placing a layer of tissue paper over the water surface inside the toilet will help prevent splashing. Make sure to empty the existing pouch.
3. Clean your hands and take the urostomy pouch off. Remove the skin barrier using adhesive remover spray. Now, press down the abdominal skin near the edge of the skin barrier using one hand. At the same time, pull the skin barrier away from the pressed part of the skin using your second hand. Make sure to remove the skin barrier slowly. Once the ostomy pouch is detached from the skin completely, throw it into a trash can.
4. Clean the skin around the stoma using a moist piece of gauze or washcloth. Use it gently while cleaning the peristomal skin. After cleaning, dry the area by using a hairdryer on the cool setting. You can also pat the skin dry using a dry cloth. Remember, the new flange will adhere to the skin only when it is dry.
5. Your stoma will change its shape and size during the first few weeks after surgery. It will take six to eight weeks for it to settle to a permanent shape and size. During these weeks, you will have to measure your stoma every time you change the ostomy pouch. Then, you will have to use those measurements to create an opening in a cut-to-fit skin barrier. Once your stoma reaches a permanent and regular shape, you can start using precut ostomy pouches.
6. Remove the adhesive cover from the flange’s side that has to go against the peristomal skin. Start applying from the top and work it downwards using your fingers. Make sure that the opening of the flange fits nicely around the stoma. After applying the skin barrier, cover it using your palms to let the warmth improve its adhesion. Attach the ostomy pouch with the flange if you are using a two-piece pouching system.
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