This topic is about a new ostomate who is experiencing an oozing rash around their stoma, which is causing the wafer to lift. Unfortunately, they don't have health insurance, so visiting a wound-ostomy-continence nurse isn't an option. They are looking for practical and affordable solutions to manage this issue. Here are some suggestions and insights that might help:

- Allow the skin to rest during times when the stoma is less active. You can briefly remove the flange or pouch, have tissues or a catch-basin ready, and let the area air-dry. Some people find it helpful to apply over-the-counter triple-antibiotic ointment, aloe, or expose the area to gentle sunlight for short periods (be careful to avoid sunburn).

- Consider getting a prescription for Topicort Gel, a topical corticosteroid. Many users have found it effective in clearing up moist rashes quickly.

- Change the pouch as soon as you notice any seepage under the pectin ring. This can prevent further skin irritation and avoid a full-blown leak.

- Try using Cymed MicroSkin pouches with MicroDerm Plus washers, which contain an antibacterial additive. The Plus version can help heal infected or oozing areas, and once the skin is healed, you can switch to regular MicroDerm washers.

- Before applying a new pouch, clean the area with water only. Dab any sore spots with Mercuroclear, a non-stinging clear mercurochrome available at stores like Walmart, which does not affect adhesion. Dry the area thoroughly with a cool hair dryer. If needed, dust with stoma powder and seal with a non-stinging skin-prep wipe.

- If you find yourself needing to change the appliance frequently, be aware that some people experience skin stripping with Hollister and ConvaTec wafers. Switching to thinner Cymed MicroSkin appliances might reduce trauma and extend wear-time, sometimes up to a week when output is normal.

- For severe skin breakdown, wound-care nurses sometimes use large 4 × 4 semi-permeable bandage sheets that act as artificial skin and can heal open areas within a week. Check with a medical professional to see if these dressings are available locally.

- Even without insurance, consider reaching out to a hospital wound/ostomy nurse. Some nurses may be willing to see non-admitted patients informally. It's important to address infections or skin damage promptly, as they can worsen quickly.

- Remember, everyone's skin reacts differently, so it's important to experiment cautiously with different products. Observe which combination of powder, wafer type, and topical medication keeps the area dry and the appliance secure.