Your Stoma Care Routine

Adjusting to life with a stoma may take some time as there are now more things to consider in your daily routine. Every stoma is unique and so is your stoma routine. Discuss your needs with your Stomal Therapy Nurse and they can advise a routine that works best for you.     

Here are some things to consider in your stoma routine:

• Prepare your new pouching system before your remove your current pouch. This will help avoid any messy situations. 

• Try to avoid letting the pouch overfill. It is a good idea to empty your pouch when it is one third or one half full of output or gas. 

• Empty your pouch before bed time or activities. 

• If you notice a build-up of gas in your pouch you may want to consider a pouch with a filter. 

• For some people a good time for a routine change of your pouching system may be in the morning before you’ve eaten or had anything to drink.
  

• Twice a week changes are considered normal. Seven days is generally recommended as the maximum length of time you should wear a single skin barrier. However, everyone is different. Discuss this with your Stomal Therapy Nurse (STN) to find a solution that works best for you. 

• Once you’ve applied your skin barrier, press gently against your skin for about 30-60 seconds – gentle pressure and warmth may help with adhesion. 

• During the warmer months or during exercise you will perspire more. This is important to consider as it may affect your pouch wear time. 

• A yearly routine follow-up is recommended with your STN. However, if you noticed any sudden changes with your stoma or the skin that surrounds it, contact your STN for an appointment even if you are not due for your routine yearly follow-up.

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