Topic Explanation:
The forum topic titled "Why I Write the Date and Time on My Bag" discusses the practice of marking ostomy bags with the date and time of when they were last changed. The original poster explains that they use this method to keep track of when the bag was last replaced, especially since it can be easy to forget or assume incorrectly about the timing of the last change. They suggest using a Sharpie or magic marker to write the date and time in a way that is readable to them but may appear upside down to others. The poster also mentions that while some people might use calendars to track changes, writing directly on the bag serves as a more immediate and personal reminder.
Advice and Insights from Replies:
1. Using Memory or Feel:
- Some users rely on their memory or physical cues from their body to decide when to change their bag. This approach is based on personal comfort and the condition of the skin around the stoma.
2. Scheduled Changes:
- Several users stick to a strict schedule (e.g., changing the bag every Tuesday) to avoid forgetting when the last change occurred. This method helps maintain consistency, especially for those managing multiple ostomies.
3. Writing on the Bag:
- Other users also practice writing the date of the last change on the bag or in a notebook, although some have mentioned misplacing the notebook. This method helps in tracking the change history and managing the condition of the skin around the stoma.
4. Using Technology or Tools:
- Taking photos of the stoma and used products during changes was mentioned as a way to document progress, especially when dealing with skin irritation or experimenting with different products.
5. Product Recommendations:
- Discussions about specific products like the Cera adapt barrier ring and Safe-N-Simple longevity rings were noted, with users sharing their experiences regarding the effectiveness and challenges of these products.
6. Humorous and Creative Suggestions:
- Some users shared light-hearted suggestions such as drawing smiley faces on the bag for each day it's worn or using the dates as lottery numbers, illustrating the community's use of humor in coping with ostomy management.
7. General Consensus on Personal Preference:
- It was emphasized that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing ostomy bag changes. What works best depends on individual needs, lifestyle, and the specific health condition of the user.
See full discusison