There is no standard time for how often to change the ostomy bag. Generally speaking, the bag body can be used for 3 to 5 days, and the service life of the ostomy bag is also related to the chassis of the ostomy bag. The chassis is sticky and does not leak. Use more time. For ostomy bags produced by Longterm Medical, the one-piece type is generally recommended for 2-3 days, and the two-piece chassis is recommended for 5-7 days. This article will introduce the frequency of ostomy bag replacement and nursing advice, please come and see it with me!

When should I change my ostomy bag?

Longterm Medical recommends that you schedule routine colostomy bag emptying before breakfast or at night before bed when your body is less busy with digestion. Plan to regularly change the colostomy bag every 3-5 days. Date the tape on the pouch or mark your calendar to remind you when the pouch was last changed. If you feel itchy or burning skin around the stoma, replace the stoma bag immediately. These sensations could be signs of a leak.

What factors affect the frequency of ostomy bag replacement?

The replacement time of the ostomy bag is determined according to each person's situation. If you have just had an ostomy, it is recommended that you change it every day, whether it is a one-piece or two-piece, because, after the operation, you need to observe the condition of the stoma and check the condition of the skin around the stoma, so it is recommended to be sure Do not exceed 2 days. Once a problem is found, it can be dealt with in time.

1. Influence of stoma shape:

① The ideal height of the stoma is 1-2cm. Generally, the stoma is higher than 1cm and it is not easy to leak. Therefore, for such a high stoma, the one-piece ostomy bag can be used for 3 days, and the two-piece ostomy bag can be used for 7 days. Of course, some people use it longer. When the height of the stoma is about 0.5cm, the position is low, and there is a possibility of leakage due to changes in body position and other reasons. It is recommended to use a one-piece ostomy bag for 1-2 days, and a two-piece ostomy bag for no more than 3 days. Because once there is leakage, a small amount will be absorbed by the chassis colloid, but when the amount is large, the skin under the chassis will be stimulated, resulting in fecal dermatitis, and the chassis will also fall off because it cannot stick.

②The stoma is low and flat or even sunken, partly due to the physical reasons of the operation itself. The height of the stoma is the same as the skin surface, so it will be easier to leak, the surrounding skin will have more serious dermatitis, and the stoma bag will not be able to stick. It is generally recommended to use a convex ostomy bag, and a belt can prevent leakage to a certain extent, and it is recommended to use a leak-proof paste. If the stoma still leaks, at this time, it may be necessary to change several bags a day, pay attention to a timely replacement, and the stoma powder skin protectant should be used together to prevent and reduce dermatitis to a certain extent.

2. The influence of lifestyle:

Many people find it helpful to schedule a pouch change early in the morning or before going to bed at night. Many people say that their stoma is less active during this time, but apparently, not everyone is. You will need to know your habits and plan the best time for you

How should I care for the stoma area?

Both the stoma and the surrounding skin need to be cleaned, just like the rest of the body. It is recommended to use Longterm Medical skin protective powder and Longterm Medical skin protective spray to keep your skin around the stoma as dry as possible to prevent complications around the stoma.

How to properly replace the ostomy bag?

Here are step-by-step instructions on how to change an ostomy bag:

① Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and have all stoma replacement supplies ready.

② Carefully remove the ostomy bag you are currently wearing. Do not force the pouch away from the skin. To be gentle, push the skin away from the adhesive stoma tray.

③ Use mild, unscented soap or stoma cleaning wipes to clean the surrounding skin. Before using a new ostomy bag, let the stoma dry completely, apply Longterm Medical skin protective powder on the skin around the stoma, and then wipe off the remaining powder with Longterm Medical skin protective spray to form a protective film to protect the skin.

④Use a stoma measuring ruler to measure your stoma size.

⑤ Use scissors to cut out the hole of the measured shape and size.

⑥ Remove the adhesive backing paper from the ostomy chassis. If you use skin protective paste, apply it around the hole you just cut from the stoma sheet.

⑦ If any discharge leaks from your stoma after you start changing the bag, wipe it off with a stoma cleaning wipe or saline solution.

⑧ Gently press your stoma tray for one minute to ensure a good seal.

In general, how often to change a bag depends on the condition of your own stoma, and choosing a good ostomy bag with a colloidal chassis, correct cutting and operation will prolong the service life of the bag.

For more information on Innomed® ostomy pouch refer to the previous articles. If you have customized needs, you are welcome to contact us; we will serve you wholeheartedly.

At Longterm Medical, we transform this data by innovating and developing products that make life easier for those who need loving care.

Editor: kiki Jia

Date: October 18, 2022