How to Change a Urostomy Pouch

If you have recently been fitted with a urostomy pouch, you may not yet be sure how or when to change it. However, in order to remain comfortable and sanitary, there are a few basic guidelines to follow – all of which will make your general urostomy care and maintenance routine as simple and convenient as possible.

#1 – Replace the pouch as directed

Although your stoma nurse will have given you directions regarding how to perform this task, it can be easy to forget the details after arriving home. A one-piece urostomy pouch will normally require replacement every other day, while the two-piece versions usually need to have the baseplate or flange section replaced once to twice a week to prevent infection or contamination.

#2 – Have everything you need immediately on hand

The best time of day to replace it is usually as early as possible in the morning before you have consumed any liquids. A urostomy functions 24/7 with no pauses in between, which is why it is crucial that you have all of your supplies on hand before removing your existing urostomy pouch. Have the replacement bag ready and cut a hole in the wafer section to fit the stoma (if you use wafers). Drain your existing bag, peel it off the stoma site carefully and dispose of it.

#3 – Clean the stoma site thoroughly

This is an absolutely crucial part of urostomy care – your stoma site must be kept clean at all times. This can be done by gently cleaning around it with warm water and wipes. Afterwards, ensure that you dry the skin thoroughly. If you use barrier cream, ensure that it is massaged in well, otherwise it could prevent your bag from fully adhering to your skin.

#4 – Check your stoma and attach the new bag

It’s important to check the size of your stoma to ensure that it hasn’t changed (your nurse should have showed you how to do this before leaving the hospital) – if it has, contact your doctor or physician immediately. Afterwards, stick your new bag or wafer correctly in place, ensuring that the tap of the bag is fully closed. Once this has been done, wash your hands thoroughly.

#5 – Purchase high quality pouch liners and ostomy products

To prevent leakage and ensure that your ostomy works as it should, it is essential to purchase high quality urostomy care products. Here at CANMedDirect.ca, we supply a variety of pouch liners and ostomy products, all of which are of the best possible quality. If you are unsure of which urostomy bag products will be best for you, feel free to speak with our representatives, all of who will be happy to help you.

If you have been struggling to obtain the right urostomy care products or you would like to find out more about the items and ranges we stock, feel free to reach out and contact us today. We are always willing to assist you, as this ensures that you get what you are looking for.