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Jul 21, 2012

Struggling with Colostomy Bag Management and Skin Issues

This topic is about managing the challenges of using a one-piece colostomy system, particularly when dealing with painful appliance removal, skin trauma, and poor output. Here are some helpful tips and insights to make things a bit easier:

1. Avoid pulling the appliance off when it's dry:
- Try loosening it in a warm shower or by placing warm, wet facecloths over the flange.
- Gradually moisten the flange while gently lifting the edge, and take your time.

2. Use adhesive remover wipes or spray, like UniSolve, while slowly peeling off the wafer. Make sure to remove all residue.

3. After removing the appliance, clean the area with warm water and a non-perfumed soap. Rinse and dry the skin thoroughly.
- You can use a hair-dryer on a low, warm setting to finish drying the skin and to pre-warm the new adhesive for better adhesion.

4. Allow the skin to rest longer between changes if possible. If the wafer adheres well, consider leaving it on for an extra day or two.

5. Ensure the opening is cut as close to the stoma size as possible:
- Even a small reduction of 1/32 inch (about 1 mm) can help prevent effluent from contacting the skin, which promotes healing.
- A precise fit can allow the flange to stay on for up to seven days, helping clear skin irritation.

6. If dexterity is an issue and adding separate seals or rings is difficult, using a correctly sized pre-cut wafer is the simplest solution.

7. If you experience persistently low output after an obstruction, it's important to seek medical advice. A partial blockage might be present, so consulting an ostomy nurse or physician is recommended rather than relying solely on peer advice.
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