Topic Explanation
The forum discussion revolves around dealing with an abscess and open wound under the flange of an ostomy bag. The original poster (OP) has had an open sore oozing pus near their stoma for about a week and a half. Despite using silver wound dressing and Duoderm as advised by an enterostomal therapy (ET) nurse, the wound has worsened. The OP is seeking advice and information on how to manage the infection and promote healing.

Advice and Insights

1. Consult Medical Professionals:
- Contact your doctor or go to the hospital to have the wound monitored and dressings changed regularly.
- Ensure the wound care nurse sees the wound again and consider a schedule of antibiotics.

2. Wound Care Techniques:
- Use silver dressings like Aquacel Ag, packed into the ulcer and covered with Duoderm, changing it every 4 days.
- Consider using stoma powder on the area and letting it dry.
- Domeboro powder dissolved in water can be beneficial when changing the bag.

3. Monitor and Adjust Treatment:
- If the wound appears to be getting worse, not better, seek further medical advice.
- Move the opening on the wafer to avoid putting pressure directly on the wound.
- Monitor the wound for changes in size, pus, and heat around the area.

4. Advocate for Yourself:
- Be persistent and advocate loudly for your care if necessary.
- Keep in regular contact with your stoma nurse and update them on the wound's progress.

5. Personal Experiences:
- Some users reported that their wounds initially got larger before starting to heal.
- Healing times can vary, with some wounds taking several weeks to a couple of months to fully heal.

6. Additional Tips:
- Ensure the skin around the wound remains healthy and watch for signs of a fistula.
- Use pouches with a softer wafer and smaller convexity if recommended by a nurse, though they may be larger than usual.

7. Follow-Up:
- Regular follow-up appointments with the stoma nurse are crucial.
- Adjust treatment based on the nurse's advice and the wound's condition.

8. Community Support:
- Sharing updates and seeking support from the community can provide reassurance and additional tips.