This topic is about how long you can leave an extended-wear barrier on after having a stoma revision. The person who started the discussion recently had their stoma revised to a more protruding shape and noticed that their barrier now stays intact much longer than before. They are curious about how long they can safely leave the barrier on and are seeking advice from others with similar experiences.
Here are some insights and advice shared by others:
1. 3–4-day schedule:
- Some people prefer to change their barrier every 3 to 4 days to avoid skin problems. They often have insurance that covers their supplies, so cost isn't a concern.
- A few have experienced leaks or issues with the bag when extending beyond 4 days, reinforcing their 3–4-day routine.
2. 4–5-day schedule:
- Many people with ileostomies or colostomies change their wafer, ring, and pouch every 4 to 5 days. The bag might be changed sooner if it gets stained or if the output doesn't move to the bottom.
- Adhesive strips or barrier extenders are used for added security. Signs like stoma discomfort, itching, or loosening edges indicate it's time for a change.
3. 5–7-day schedule or once-a-week:
- Those who pay for supplies themselves or have limited supplies often change weekly, allowing them to build a small reserve.
- Some report wearing the barrier for 5 to 9 days without leaks by using skin-prep wipes, thin barrier rings, or wide barrier straps to catch any seepage.
4. 7-plus days and special setups:
- One person regularly reaches 6 to 7 days but limits wear to six days after experiencing minor irritation.
- Another uses custom baseplates with Coloplast appliances, changing bags or sleeves monthly, and cleaning them to extend their life.
- The longest reported wear time without issues is 9 days.
5. Urostomy perspective:
- A new urostomate changes every 3 days, sometimes 4, noticing wafer erosion but healthy skin.
Factors influencing how often to change include:
- Skin condition: redness, itching, or pain means it's time to change.
- Barrier integrity: peeling edges or loosening are signs to change.
- Bag condition: staining, cracking, or pancaking indicate a need for change.
- Activity and environment: sweating, chemical exposure, or frequent showers can reduce wear time.
- Output type and consistency: different types of output affect wear time.
- Cost and insurance: financial considerations can dictate change frequency.
- Personal comfort and routine: many people stick to a regular schedule for peace of mind.
Products and accessories mentioned include:
- Coloplast SenSura Mio barrier and high-output pouch.
- Two-piece systems from Coloplast for separate wafer and pouch changes.
- Skin-prep wipes, thin barrier rings, adhesive strips, and large barrier straps.
The general consensus is to leave the barrier on as long as the skin remains healthy, with most people choosing a 3 to 7-day interval to balance skin safety, leakage risk, cost, and convenience. Trial and error are often necessary, but it's usually not worth pushing beyond personal comfort levels.
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