When you're preparing to travel with a colostomy, especially if you're planning a six-hour flight soon, it's important to have a well-stocked emergency kit. This kit will help you feel more confident and prepared for any situation that might arise. Here's some practical advice on what to include in your colostomy emergency kit and how to pack it efficiently:
1. The number of supplies you need depends on the length of your trip, but for shorter outings, consider carrying:
- 2 to 3 pre-cut wafers/flanges and matching pouches, whether you use a one-piece or two-piece system.
- Ostomy paste or seals.
- 2 pairs of underwear and a full change of clothes.
- An ostomy belt if you usually wear one.
- Several small disposable or black plastic bags for waste.
- A bundle of dry wipes or gauze swabs.
- Barrier-moisture wipes or sachets.
- Optionally, a pair of ordinary scissors if allowed (note that airlines typically do not permit sharp items in hand luggage).
2. Pre-cutting wafers/flanges at home can save time and eliminate the need to carry scissors.
3. Choose a compact bag for your kit:
- A small shaving-kit style bag from the hospital.
- Free travel wallets from manufacturers that fit in a glove box or clothing pocket.
- A cosmetic or make-up bag that fits inside a handbag for everyday use.
4. For flights or situations where checked luggage might be lost, keep all your supplies in your hand luggage. Bag each day's set (flange, pouch, removal wipe, skin-protection wipe, gauze, disposal bag) separately to ensure nothing is forgotten and to make security checks easier.
5. Regularly rotate the stock in your emergency kit, as adhesives on pouches can lose their stickiness over time.
6. Keep an extra ready-made wallet in your car's glove box for unexpected delays.
7. If you have a urostomy or another type of stoma, you can adapt these principles by carrying 2 spare one-piece bags, wipes, barrier wipes, mini disposal bags, and so on.
By following these tips, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you're prepared for any situation while keeping your load light and manageable.
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