Helpful Tips | genairex

Don't Let Your Ostomy

Slow You Down

In Case of Emergency

Accidents can happen, so an “Emergency Kit” can be a real life-saver. Here are some items to include:

Extra wafer or ostomy system
Hand gel
Collapsible plastic cup
Plastic bag
Tissues/toilet paper
Extra underwear

NOTE: Never keep ostomy supplies in the trunk or glove compartment of your car. Extreme heat or cold can damage the skin barriers and adhesive wafers on the pouch.

Helpful Tips

The firmness of your stool depends on what you eat and drink.
Gas and odor will occur, but you can control them. Refer to the Diet and Nutrition information on previous pages.
Empty the pouch frequently, keeping it no more than 1/3 to 1/2 full.
Treat a bowel movement like you do any movement—let it happen naturally instead of trying to force it.
Put toilet paper in the bowl before emptying your pouch, it minimizes the splashing and sound.
Remember that you are always more aware of the issues than everyone else and everyone else has bowel movements as well.
Eat a few marshmallows 10-20 minutes before you change your appliance. It will slow down high output enough to change the appliance.
Prop yourself up on your elbow before standing, it helps prevent leaks.
To prevent a vacuum, separate the two layers of the pouch before applying to allow air into the pouch.
Lift and carry things on the sides of your legs.
Before traveling abroad, call Intermedic, Inc. at 212-486-8974. They can provide you with English speaking doctors.
If using washcloths, buy inexpensive ones—they are easier to wring out when changing the appliance.
Use lubricating deodorant to keep stool from sticking to the pouch.
Using soft toilet paper or baby wipes can help keep your rectum from getting irritated.

THIS INFORMATION IS INTENDED FOR GENERAL CONSUMER UNDERSTANDING AND EDUCATION ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE AND IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A QUALIFIED HEALTH CARE PROVIDER BEFORE YOU UNDERGO ANY TREATMENT OR FOR ANSWERS TO ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE REGARDING A MEDICAL CONDITION. NOTHING CONTAINED IN THIS HEALTH INFORMATION IS INTENDED TO BE OR IS TO BE USED FOR MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT.