My Top Five to Get More Wear Time | Safely Extending Bag | Wafer Time | Ileostomy | Stoma Life

Ostomy - My Top Five "secrets" For Long Wear Time

My TOP FIVE reasons why I believe, after being an ileostomate for over four years now, I'm getting the safe, wear time length, with my appliance set up.

My set up is ConvaTec Natura Moldable wafer / pouch.

The biggest reason I switched from one piece to two, by the way; versatility.

A big thanks to Marlene for suggesting this list!

1) 🌺Getting a really good seal.
1. I take my time cleaning, prepping, using warmth, using hairdryer on low, heating pad, holding down on the wafer against my skin, laying flat for approximately 30 minutes (when possible), and no eating or drinking during that time.

2) 🌸I wear an ostomy belt.
1. Because I have a two-piece, it clips right onto the flange, adding gentle pressure to keep the flange from popping off. After a few days, I got used to it so I hardly even notice I'm wearing it years later.

3) 🌼Rinse, rinse, rinse!
1. Y'all know I'm a big proponent there. Warm water, swish gently around the stoma if I have any pancaking happening & just rinse every time I hit the restroom.

4) 🌻Shower prep.
1. I wear a shower cap. It doesn't completely keep the water off the flange & pouch, but it does help. Adding a sheet of Glad Press'nSeal or any plastic bag, shower curtain or Saran Wrap over the cap is an option that works - if you can find a safe, skin-friendly, medical tape that stays on when soap hits it (my fav Hy / Pink tape has not).
2. Post shower: dry the flange's paper/tape adhesive edge & the pouch itself. I towel dry, then use a hairdryer if I don't have time to let it "air dry".
3. **a word on longevity here: I have noticed that this paper/tape adhesive edge starts to peel up in the next day or so after a long, hot shower so I generally take short "duck in & out" but sometimes you just need that 15 minute steam shower =D

5) ☀️I'm not a big "sweater" but if you are, this could impact the longevity of your appliance. But are made to get wet.

I've found, a little prep, goes a long way. I know some of y'all actually change your appliance daily or almost daily so that may not even be an issue, but if you're trying to safely (meaning your peristomal skin is in good shape) extend the wear time of your appliance, prep def helps!

What are some of your top ideas that work for you? I hope you'll share them with us in the comments!

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Y’all Live Blessed!
Karah

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PRODUCTS I Use:

- [ ] #ConvaTec #Natura Moldable Wafer 411802, Natura Pouch 416418. Mini pouch info: the old number was 416408 but it was discontinued by ConvaTec for a new 6” with a filter. Unfortunately, the new product number is not legible on my samples. You can order these as sample using that old number for reference but you’ll need to call them.
- [ ] #SensiCare adhesive remover wipes & spray
- [ ] #Coloplast #Brava #deodorant (for inside pouch)
- [ ] Hollister Adapt stoma powder
- [ ] 3M #Cavilon skin prep wipes & spray
- [ ] Doggie bags (from Dollar Tree) to dispose of used appliance & cleaning supplies
- [ ] Viva Signature Cloth paper towels
- [ ] #Hy Tape (pink)
- [ ] Huggies Natural Care baby wipes
- [ ] #Coloplast #Brava Elastic Strips; “Y” - 120721 & “C” - 120700

Generic Ostomy Belt: https://my.edgepark.com/ostomy/ostomy-accessories/ostomy-belts/cardinal-health-essentials-adjustable-ostomy-belt-for-convatec-pouches-with-plastic-buckle-1-width/p/zr9300

White Shower Cap: https://www.ebay.com/itm/Ostomy-Waterproof-Protection-Cover-Stoma-Bath-Assistance-Adjustable-Protec-P2-/363419500267?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0

Beige Shower Cap: https://www.amazon.com/Ostomy-Waterproof-Assist-Accessory-Adjustable-Supply/dp/B091CD6NSS/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=2NL3XARGVG32O&keywords=ostomy+stoma+cap&qid=1645158129&sprefix=ostomy+stoma+%2Caps%2C176&sr=8-4#
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CREDITS:

Videoleap Unlimited app: video editing & audio tracks (in order of appearance): “Acoustic Loop 4”

Canva: miscellaneous graphics, gifs & thumbnails (currently utilizing free version!)

Apple: video capture & photos (iPhone 11)

Lighting: UBeesize Ring Light Set (was a gift but was told available on Amazon :-)

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UOAA’a reference guide for eating: https://www.ostomy.org/diet-nutrition/

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