Day 1 with a Stoma - (Colostomy) it was quite an experience hearing noises from my stoma and noticed it was getting inflated. I asked the nurses what I should be doing.
Day 2 - I didn’t know what to expect but was told that there might not be any action as I haven’t eaten in days. And it happened and I had no clue what I was to do. Stoma nurse showed me step by step what I had to do and yes, this is a task I have to get used to.
So my question is, how often does one change the bag? Can I change it every time or just empty it? How many bags are given to us in one order? I was given 6 bags to go home with. Is that going to last til I am given more, which I don’t know when I’d be given more. Is there anything we can put in the bag to take the smell away?
HELP
AnaC-C
Hi Ana my apologies for the delay in sending this over, for some reason I had trouble in attaching some files and had to work out another way to do it, just what I needed on a warm sunny day.
Here goes anyway.
cambridgeshire and peterbrough clinical Commissioning published this review in Feb 2018 which lays down the number of appliances that can be issued each month. This might give you a better understanding of the procedure for ordering, and the difference between changing a pouch and emptying it.
Empty the pouch
Change the pouch at the first sign of a leak, or if you feel an itch behind the baseplate or if you can sense a smell but if looks and feels okay don't rush into a change just keep checking especially just before bed time.
I am surprised that you were discharged with 6 pouches, I always thought it was more with the hospital stoma care nurses requesting from your designated su0pply company sending you your first months supply immediately, after 2 weeks you place your first order for the next month which should arrive in ample time before you run out, you then place subsequent orders every 4 weeks. The stoma care nurses will advise you on how you should order. It should be remembered that the suggested company should be the one, you can change the company at any time and will be welcomed with open arms and goodies galore.
Every order should come with a few packs of dry wipes and a pack of disposable bags
To take the smell away you could peppermint oil, or some tubes of deodourisation gels. Striking a match in the toilet or having a lit candle in the toilet.
ostomist in pouch odour neutralising drops
Other products from different manufacturers are available.
Anna hope this answers some of the questions . Please continue to ask if you need more help.
Ian
CC
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