It may take some time to get used to the process of changing colostomy and ileostomy bags and properly cleaning your stoma , but as you will discover, it is not complicated or difficult. We have compiled the most frequently asked questions we receive from you so that you can be completely independent as soon as possible.
B. Braun ostomy materials are specially designed with a primary focus on safety, comfort and discretion, offering real solutions to everyday problems such as irritation, odor and gas .
Where can I order ostomy materials?
Before you leave the hospital, you will be given supplies to last you for at least a week. You will also be given information and advice on how to procure the supplies. Your doctor will give you instructions on what is required, and will give you an opinion on the supplies you need.
Order new supplies of colostomy or ileostomy bags when you open your last box . That way you'll never run out.
However, do not let supplies accumulate, as they can be damaged by moisture or temperature changes.
Can I change the bags myself?
Yes! You will need some training at first, but learning to do the changes yourself will allow you to be independent. This will also help you if you are faced with a small leak problem. You will know what to do in such a case (clean with soap and water), without having to ask for additional help.
Do I need special equipment?
It only takes 5 minutes to prepare the necessary equipment to perform an ileostomy or colostomy bag change .
Get into the habit of always taking with you the few things needed to wash yourself, a spare bag and, at first, some clothes, in case of accidents or discomfort. Your stoma is not a wound but a mucous membrane, therefore, daily care is nothing more than a simple cleaning with your bare hands, using water and soap. To be as independent as possible at home, we recommend that you make the changes yourself so that you get used to it as soon as possible.
Recommended equipment for colostomy - ileostomy bag change
- a good pair of scissors , preferably with rounded edges
- a razor (not needed if there is no hair around your stoma)
- a pen to mark the diameter of the stoma on the new bag or bag base
- a small mirror to see under the stoma and ensure proper placement
- garbage bags
- cleaning wipes
- if you are using a one-piece system: a new bag
- if you are using a two-piece system: a new bag and/or a new base
- your pastes and creams (if you use them)
- a clothes peg to hold your clothes when you change
How do I remove the used bag & clean the stoma?
To properly dispose of your used bag, refer to the instructions on its packaging. The following are the basic steps:
- Peel off the pouch starting from the top, gently pressing the surrounding skin to avoid overstretching the pouch.
- Fold the bag before throwing it away (reduces odors)
- Wipe up most of the feces with a dry or slightly damp cloth or absorbent paper (which you then throw in the trash)
- Clean the area around the stoma thoroughly and thoroughly with plenty of warm water, especially if you use soap. Avoid using disinfectants (alcohol, antiseptics or dyes), as they can damage the skin and prevent the pouch from sticking properly. Avoid using ointments as they make it difficult for the pouch to stick. In the case of adhesive residue, you can use the product B. Braun Ally® Adhesive Remover 50ml – Patch & Ostomy Removal Spray
- Dry the skin thoroughly with patting movements (the new base/bag should be placed on dry skin) and place the new bag. If there are still traces of adhesive, don't worry, it will stick to the new bag and be removed during the next change.
Ostomy bags are not biodegradable and therefore cannot be thrown away in the toilet or anywhere else. Used bags can be placed in a bag that you close tightly and then thrown away with the rest of the household waste. If you have bags that can be emptied, it is a good idea to empty them of their contents before throwing them away.
How do I place the new ileostomy - colostomy bag?
To properly place your new colostomy bag and/or ileostomy base, refer to the instructions for use included in their packaging. The basic steps, of course, are as follows:
- If you are using a base or bag that needs to be cut to size, cut to fit your stoma size, using the cutting guide (do not cut beyond the limit). Make sure to leave 1 to 2 millimeters around the stoma.
- To fit a bag from a one-piece system, start by removing the adhesive and gently apply the new bag starting from the bottom up (with the filter on top). Gently press the base of the bag around the mouthpiece in a circular motion, starting from the mouthpiece towards the outside of the base, to ensure it is properly attached and there are no wrinkles. Make sure to leave 1 to 2 mm around the mouthpiece
- To apply a 2-piece system , start by removing the adhesive from the base and apply from the bottom up. Gently press the base of the bag around the stoma in a circular motion, starting from the stoma towards the outside of the base, to ensure that it is properly adhered and there are no wrinkles. Then apply the bag to the base
Hair around your stoma can cause the pouch to not adhere properly and cause pain when changing. It is recommended that you shave the area very carefully with a razor.
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How often should I change the bag or base?
You decide. Everyone finds their own routine and is able to do it on their own. The process normalizes about a month after the operation. Usually in a two-piece system the base is changed every 3 days and the bag (for both one- and two-piece systems) daily or when full.
How can I prevent irritation and redness from appearing on the skin around the stoma?
If you follow the steps below, you can prevent redness and irritation of the skin around your stoma:
- Clean your stoma with soap and water (neutral pH, fragrance-free). Do not use disinfectants or alcohol.
- Check for allergic reactions (from the adhesive material of the base, for example)
- You can use skin protective products, such asgr/el/product/50-b-braun-askina-barrier-film-28ml-prostateutiko-sprei-dermatos-me-silikoni-28ml?preview_hash=a280c2e446e33760d2345e71fd1439c6"> B.Braun Askina Barrier Film
Can I modify my bag?
Of course! You can customize your pouch any way you want, using different materials (tape, fabric, etc.). You can even find videos, photos, and instructions online by searching for “modifying ostomy materials” or “fashionable ostomy.” Just be careful with the filter if you use airtight materials.