Alternatively, some colostomy bags have liners and flanges that are designed to be flushed down the toilet. If the bag you are using has a biodegradable flange and inner liner, place them in the bowl and flush. The outer layer remains clean. It can be placed in a purse or pocket until you can dispose of it.
If necessary, use a measuring card device (given to your by your doctor or nurse) to measure the size of your stoma. You will need to know its size, if you don’t already, before attaching a new colostomy bag. Also be sure to wash your hands one more time before putting on the new pouch. This will ensure optimum sanitization of the new pouch, as you will not want any contamination with old fecal matter.
The circle should be approximately ⅛ of an inch larger than the stoma itself. Some flanges have pre-printed guides to help you with this task. Cut the flange to fit your stoma. This is a process that takes time to master. Often times, on-call nurses can answer questions or help solve problems and/or decide if you need to be seen or if the problem can be solved with phone consultation.
This is helpful when the time comes to empty stool from your bag. The baby oil keeps the stool from sticking to the bag. Purchasing (or reusing) a bottle with an eyedropper may be very helpful for this task.
Start in the center (near the stoma) and then move toward the outer edges. All creases must be smoothed; otherwise, the colostomy bag could leak. When you change the baseplate for a two-piece closed colostomy pouch, you will need to use the stoma paste or a ring seal as the adhesive. Hold the flange for about 45 seconds. The warmth of your hands helps the adhesive stick to the skin.
You should never go longer than seven days between changing of the colostomy bag and appliance. Note that this is just a guideline. Always follow the specific instructions from your doctor or nurse as to how frequently to change your colostomy bag.
After discharge you will be responsible for ordering your own supplies. Be sure that you have plenty of supplies stored, so that you will not find yourself short-handed equipment-wise when you go to change your colostomy bag.
A new pouch A clean towel Skin wipes or cleaning supplies Scissors A measuring card and pen A skin barrier such as stoma powder (optional) Adhesive material (normally stoma paste or a ring seal).
