Ileostomy Care

You are going to need to wear a drainable ostomy pouch to manage your ileostomy. For this purpose, you will need to sit on or next to the toilet. Removing the clip on the tail of that pouch will allow waste contents to flow out, emptying the bag. Make sure to clean the area and flush the toilet before using the clip to fasten the tail of your ostomy pouch.

If you are using a one-piece ostomy pouch, you will need to change it every 2-3 days. A two-piece ostomy pouch, however, allows you to change the pouch without taking off the baseplate, also known as the skin barrier or flange. Nevertheless, it is crucial to change the baseplate once or twice a week.

Removing the used ileostomy bag

  • First, make sure to have everything that you are going to need during the pouch changing process to hand.
  • Empty your pouch the way described above.
  • Wash your hands. If you are not near water, use an antibacterial hand sanitizer.
  • Put the skin near the ostomy pouch’s skin barrier using one hand, and peel the skin barrier off using the other hand. If the adhesive is strong, you can use an adhesive remover to prevent any damage to your skin.
  • Rinse this pouch and place it in a disposal bag along with other items such as wipes. You can also wrap this pouch in paper or an ordinary plastic bag.

Clean the skin around the stoma

  • You can use lukewarm water to clean the area around the stoma. Make sure not to rub this part of the skin.
  • Dry the peristomal skin using a dry wipe. Make sure to pat the skin dry rather than rubbing.
  • Place these used wipes in the disposal bag along with other used supplies.
  • Wash your hands with water.

Applying the next ostomy bag

  • You will need to use a skin barrier to protect your skin from coming in contact with the stomal output. This skin barrier or flange has an adhesive side, which goes against the peristomal skin. While applying this barrier, make sure to avoid the formation of creases, as they can allow the stomal output to seep through. Before applying the skin barrier, make sure to clean the peristomal skin well.
  • If you are using a cut-to-fit skin barrier, be sure to create an opening in it of the shape and size of your stoma. You can use traditional scissors or a flange cutter to create this opening. While applying the skin barrier, make sure that the inner edges of its opening are 1/8-inch away from the stoma from all sides. It will help prevent any irritation in the peristomal skin area. Remember, a too-wide skin barrier opening can allow the peristomal skin to come in direct contact with the stomal output.
  • After applying the skin barrier, cover it with your palms to allow the warmth of your hand to strengthen the adhesive.

If you have any questions or concerns about how to change an ileostomy bag, be sure to speak with your doctor or ostomy care nurse.

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