Ostomy is a surgical opening in the abdomen, which is for the elimination of body wastes in case of diseased portions in the gastrointestinal or urinary system.
You need to know the necessary care to take after the ostomy, know the precautions, and the management. Also, check out these quality ostomy and colostomy products.
10 Most Important Ostomy Care
- Meet with an Ostomy Nurse
After you are done with the surgery, you need to meet with a nurse that specializes in ostomy care. The nurse will give you proper education and training on how to take care of yourself after this surgery. Follow the instructions given to you.
- Change your Ostomy Bag
Empty and replace your ostomy bag or pouch as recommended by your nurse. How often you should change your bag depends on your choice, how quickly it fills up, or the size of the bag, because it can vary. Changing it regularly prevents skin irritation and leakage.
- How To Change Your Ostomy Bag
You need to know how to change your ostomy bag with less difficulty and good hygiene. Your nurse should demonstrate to you how to do that, and make sure to ask in case your nurse didn’t remember to tell you. Wash your hands before and after the change.
- What to do after changing your Ostomy Bag
When you want to change the bag, wipe away the mucus on the opening, and clean the skin around it well with warm water, and a napkin. Then, dry the skin completely. Soap is highly discouraged. If at all you will use soap, use a mild one with no fragrance and oil, to prevent irritation.
- Use Your Medicine as Prescribed
Make sure you use the drugs prescribed by your doctor regularly. These drugs have many positive contributions to your wellness after the ostomy. So, you can’t afford to not use your drugs or not follow your doctor’s prescription.
- Take Your Bath Regularly
Most ostomy bags or pouches are waterproof, so they don’t stop you from taking your bath with them. Take your bath regularly, to maintain your healthy and clean self. Also, you can take your bath without them, and there wouldn’t be any consequences.
- Visit a Wound Care Specialist
In case you notice any skin breakdown around the opening, consult your doctor to refer you to a wound care specialist. If you notice bleeding around the opening, go to the hospital immediately. Your prompt response will lead to proper care management of the wound.
- Dietary Needs
What you eat has a way it influences your rate of recovery after the surgery and the rate of elimination of your body wastes. This is the reason you might need a dietitian to help you with that.
- Treat Minor Skin Irritations
Once you notice any skin problem like redness, paleness, or swelling around the opening, make sure you get treatment immediately.
- Seek an Immediate Medical Attention
Once you notice any change in your health or around the opening, don’t hesitate to visit your doctor or nurse for treatment.