Omari Gates
A colostomy bag is a medical device that fits securely around the stoma and provides a means for collecting waste. Stomas can be temporary or permanent, and are usually required when there is an obstruction to the bladder or bowel. Changing a colostomy bag can be challenging at first, but it gets easier with time and practice. The process involves emptying the bag, removing the adhesive device, cleaning the stoma site, measuring the stoma, applying a new adhesive plate, and attaching the new bag. It is important to maintain good hygiene and follow specific instructions provided by healthcare professionals. The frequency of changing the bag depends on individual needs and the type of bag used.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is a colostomy bag? | A colostomy bag is a medical device that fits securely around the stoma to collect waste. |
| How often should it be changed? | Stoma bags are designed to be worn for between three to seven days. It is recommended to change the bag if you feel itching or burning on the skin around the stoma. |
| What are the steps to change it? | 1. Wash your hands thoroughly and set out all your supplies. 2. Empty the colostomy bag. 3. Remove the adhesive device. 4. Clean the stoma site with water and a washcloth. 5. Measure your stoma and cut an opening in the new adhesive plate. 6. Apply skin protectant, adhesive, or paste. 7. Smooth out any creases in the bag to prevent leakage. |
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What You'll Learn
Emptying the bag
Emptying your colostomy bag is the first step in changing it. If there is urine or faeces in your bag, it is important to empty it before changing. The best place to do this is in the bathroom.
If you have a disposable bag, you will need to remove the entire bag and dispose of the contents. If you have a drainable bag, you can empty it into a waste container or into the toilet. To empty the bag, open the bottom of the bag over the toilet and gently squeeze out the contents. Urine will automatically flow from the bag when it is opened. Some colostomy bags have liners and flanges that can be flushed down the toilet. If your bag has a biodegradable flange and inner liner, place them in the bowl and flush.
Once the bag is emptied, you can begin to remove the adhesive device. Pushing in on your skin at one corner of the device is the gentlest method and will cause the least amount of irritation to your skin and stoma site. Gently pull the adhesive plate away from your skin until it is completely off. You may choose to use adhesive sprays or removers to help loosen the seal.
Place the old pouch, adhesive plate, and any paste residue into a bag for disposal. You can keep the clip that closes the end of the bag, as these are often reusable.
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Removing the adhesive
Once the bag is emptied or removed, you can begin to remove the adhesive device. Pushing gently on your skin at one corner of the device is the most gentle method for your skin and stoma site. Then, slowly pull the adhesive plate away from your skin until it is completely off. You may use an adhesive remover to help loosen the seal, or you may choose to use warm water and a dry wipe with mild soap to clean the area.
If you are using a two-piece closed colostomy pouch, you will need to use stoma paste or a ring seal as the adhesive. Hold the flange for about 45 seconds to allow the warmth of your hands to help the adhesive stick to the skin.
After removing the adhesive, place the old pouch and adhesive plate, along with any paste residue and cleaning supplies, into a bag for disposal.
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Cleaning the stoma
To clean the stoma, start by emptying and removing the old colostomy bag. You can do this over a toilet or into a bag. Cut the adhesive around the stoma, using a barrier wipe or spray to help dissolve the adhesive if necessary. Once the bag is removed, clean the skin around the stoma with warm water and a mild soap. Use a soft cloth or cotton wool to gently wipe the area, being careful not to apply too much pressure to the stoma. Rinse the skin thoroughly with warm water and dry it completely, taking care not to leave any soap residue. You can use a hairdryer on a cool setting to ensure the skin is completely dry.
Next, clean the stoma itself. Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild soap. Gently dip a clean, soft cloth or cotton wool into the soapy water and carefully wipe the stoma, ensuring that you don't apply too much pressure. Rinse the cloth or cotton wool with clean, warm water and gently wipe the stoma again to remove any soap residue. Dry the stoma gently with a soft, clean cloth or use the cool setting on a hairdryer.
If you experience any pain or discomfort during cleaning, adjust your technique or consult your healthcare team for advice. It is important to be gentle and avoid applying pressure or rubbing the stoma too vigorously. Take your time and be as gentle as possible to avoid causing any irritation or damage to the stoma.
You may also use a stoma cleaning deodorant to help remove any odour and ensure the area is clean and fresh. Follow the instructions on the product, and ensure it is suitable for use on the stoma and surrounding skin. Some products may be sprayed directly onto the stoma, while others may require application with a soft cloth. Always ensure the area is thoroughly rinsed and dried after using any cleaning products.
After cleaning the stoma and surrounding skin, you can proceed to prepare the skin for the application of a new colostomy bag. This may involve applying a barrier spray or wipe to protect the skin and create a barrier against output from the stoma. Ensure you follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team and the product manufacturer for the best results and to maintain the health of your stoma and surrounding skin.
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Applying the new adhesive
After cleaning your stoma with warm water and a dry wipe with mild soap, it's time to apply the new adhesive.
Firstly, measure your stoma with the measuring guide. Then, use the guide to cut an opening in the new adhesive plate. The opening should be about 1/8 inch larger than your stoma. If you have a two-piece system, trace the circle size onto the back of the ring seal and cut out this size, ensuring that the cut edges are smooth.
Now, apply the skin protectant, adhesive, or paste of your choice as directed by the manufacturer of your colostomy bag supplies. If you are using a two-piece closed colostomy pouch, you will need to use 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.
If you have any wet skin, sprinkle some stoma powder on the wet or open part, and lightly pat a special wipe on top of the powder and your skin. Let the area air-dry for 1 to 2 minutes.
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Changing frequency
The frequency with which you need to change your colostomy bag is patient-specific and may depend on the type of bag you are using. For people with one-piece pouches, the entire colostomy bag will need to be changed each time; for people with two-piece pouches, the pouch can be changed as frequently as desired, while the flange will only need to be changed every two to three days. Drainable ostomy pouches are typically changed every two to four days, while pre-cut, closed ostomy bags are usually changed daily.
The bag should be emptied when it is about one-third to one-half full, which is typically several times a day, but the frequency can vary based on individual factors like diet and the type of ostomy. It is recommended that you change the bag before it is too full to prevent undue pressure on the seal.
If you have a colostomy bag, it can take a while to master the skill of changing it. The nurse will have given you instructions specific to your colostomy bag prior to discharging you from the hospital. With time and practice, you will soon become proficient at changing your colostomy bag. It is recommended that you establish a routine for changing your colostomy bag.
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Frequently asked questions
Stoma bags are designed to be worn for between three to seven days. Changing the bag too frequently can cause skin irritation, as can leaving the bag on for too long. If you feel itching or burning on the skin around the stoma, change the pouch promptly as this may be a sign of a leak.
Wash your hands thoroughly and set out all of your supplies so they are ready to use. You may also want to place a clean towel on your lap to protect your clothing.
Empty your colostomy bag in the bathroom. If you have a disposable device, remove and dispose of the entire bag. If you have a drainable bag, empty it into a waste container or over the toilet. Once the bag is emptied or removed, gently remove the adhesive plate away from your skin.
