This topic is about someone having trouble removing a Convatec Natura wafer, which is a part of an ostomy appliance. They are looking for advice on better adhesive removers because their current one isn't working well anymore. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others:
1. Consider extending the wear time of the wafer if possible. Many people find that the wafer is easier to remove after 7–14 days, while it can be more difficult after just 1–3 days. Frequent changes and the repeated use of adhesive removers can also irritate the skin.
2. Try different adhesive removers that others have found effective:
- Uni-Solve wipes or liquid from Smith & Nephew are often praised for being trouble-free.
- Hollister Adhesive Remover Spray is another option that many find easy to use.
- ADAPT Adhesive Remover Wipes from Hollister come with extra fluid for stubborn areas.
- Esenta Spray or Wipes from Coloplast, which is the same formula as an earlier brand, works well for several users.
- Coloplast-branded adhesive remover (non-Esenta) is also mentioned as effective.
- Ivory Liquid Body Wash on a cotton pad can be an inexpensive alternative.
3. Use application techniques that can help reduce skin trauma:
- Sprays can be easier to use than wipes. Use a spray to detach the wafer, then clean up with 1–2 wipes.
- Pre-soak the tape border of the wafer with a remover wipe or spray about 15 minutes before removal.
- Remove the wafer slowly, keeping the soaked pad in contact with the edge to allow the fluid to seep under as you peel.
- If the wafer is solid plastic, the remover can only enter from the edges, so take your time.
- Test new removers on normal skin by cutting a new wafer into quarters to avoid reactions on irritated skin.
- Lightly dust stoma powder on the skin around the stoma to slightly reduce adhesion, but do not seal with a barrier wipe. Adjust the amount to maintain the seal's integrity.
- Punch tiny holes in the wafer before applying it to create extra seep-points for the remover.
4. Troubleshoot the current problem by considering if there might be a faulty batch of the Cardinal Health remover or a change in the Natura adhesive. Try a different bottle or lot number, or switch to a different brand.
5. For clarification, the term "wafer" refers to the sticky barrier part of a one-piece pouch or the baseplate of a two-piece system.
See full discusison