This topic is about how long people with ostomies can safely wear their appliances before needing to change them. The original poster has managed to wear theirs for up to 14 days due to mobility issues but is curious about others' experiences and limits.
Here are some insights and advice shared by others:
1. Short wear times, around 2 days, can be due to:
- A flat stoma, especially after hernia mesh surgery, which makes it difficult for the wafer to seal properly.
- Rinsing the pouch every time it's emptied or taking frequent showers, which can weaken the adhesive.
- Convex wafers can help, but only to a certain extent.
2. For those aiming for 1 to 3 weeks of wear:
- Keeping the skin around the stoma clean and healthy is crucial.
- Use Skin-Tac adhesive on the skin, let it dry until tacky, then apply the wafer.
- Reinforce the edges of the wafer with Leukotape, replacing it if it starts to lift.
- Some users report that Skin-Tac can last up to 3 weeks before body oils break it down.
3. Strategies for consistent 7 to 10-day wear:
- Hollister 2-piece systems with a Salts barrier ring and Coloplast Brava strips can last over 10 days.
- Hollister 8901 pouches with generic barrier rings can stay secure for 4 to 7 days, even on a wrinkled abdomen.
- Keep an eye on the flange; change it immediately if you notice any discoloration or darkness under the edge.
- Many people prefer to change their appliance weekly, like every weekend, for convenience and to manage supply use.
4. For high-output or very active stomas:
- Typical wear is 4 to 6 days, but it can be stretched to 8 or 9 days if there are no leaks.
- If the output is constant, consider withholding food briefly to calm the stoma before changing the appliance.
- Hair regrowth under the wafer after day 7 can cause discomfort; clipping or shaving beforehand can help avoid a painful "wax job."
5. General factors affecting wear time:
- Diet, body movement, sweating, and shower habits all play a role.
- Some stoma nurses suggest appliances are designed for 4 to 5 days, but many people exceed this with good techniques.
- Longer wear times can be financially beneficial due to insurance or Medicare supply limits.
These insights include various products like Skin-Tac adhesive, Leukotape, Hollister systems, Salts barrier rings, and Coloplast Brava strips, which are mentioned as helpful tools in managing wear time.
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