This topic is about managing an ileostomy when your dominant arm is immobilized after having rotator cuff surgery. If you are facing this situation, here are some helpful tips and advice to make the process a bit easier:

1. Practice doing everything one-handed before your surgery. Sit on the toilet and have all your supplies like toilet paper and wipes ready. Try opening Velcro closures, peeling the wafer, cleaning, and resealing without any help.

2. Use pre-cut or pre-shaped wafers or barriers. These types of pouches don't require cutting, which makes applying them with one hand much simpler.

3. You will likely need to wear a sling for 4 to 6 weeks. Ask your surgeon if the sling can be loosened briefly to help with pouch changes. Keep in mind that right after surgery, a nerve block might make your arm unusable for a few days, so plan for that.

4. Emptying the pouch daily is generally manageable with one hand. However, changing the entire appliance can be challenging and may lead to leaks or skin irritation until you get the hang of it.

5. Before starting, lay out all your supplies—pouch, wafer, scissors (if needed), adhesive remover, skin prep, and disposal bags—within easy reach.

6. Be patient with yourself. Leaks and frustration are common as you learn, but with time, you'll improve.

7. Arrange for backup help from family, friends, or a home-health nurse for times when you're too tired or in pain to manage on your own.

8. If possible, practice loosening the sling just enough to reach your stoma without affecting post-op restrictions.

9. Mentally prepare yourself for the limitations you might face. Accept help when you need it, and remember that persistence will help you regain your independence over time.