This topic is all about preparing for outings just two weeks after having ostomy surgery. It can be a bit daunting to think about leaving the house, but with a little preparation, you can feel more confident and comfortable. Here are some practical tips on what to pack:
1. Create two emergency kits: a small one for your jacket or handbag and a larger backup kit for your car.
2. For the small kit, consider including:
- 1 to 2 spare one-piece pouches from any manufacturer.
- A couple of disposal bags.
- Wet wipes and dry wipes, ideally in a compact, waterproof wallet-style bag.
3. For the car kit or larger bag, you might want to pack:
- Additional pouches, disposal bags, adhesive sprays, stoma powder, and deodorant spray.
- Clean underwear and a spare pair of leggings or other pants.
- An absorbent bathroom towel to sit on in case of leakage.
- A three-foot length of thin rope or spare shoelaces to tie off pant legs if the pouch detaches unexpectedly.
- A complete change of clothes and all ostomy supplies packed in a backpack.
4. If your surgery is related to ulcerative colitis and you might have some residual rectal discharge, wearing a Depends diaper can offer extra security.
5. Remember, it's better to be safe than sorry. Most people rarely need to change their pouch in public, but having supplies on hand can give you peace of mind.
6. Consider using discreet, fashionable "big bags" like tote-style handbags to easily hide your supplies. No one will notice, and you'll feel more at ease.
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