How to Care for a Colostomy

A colostomy is a surgical opening from the colon through the abdominal wall to the outside of the body. The purpose is for waste products (stool) to leave the body. A colostomy is performed for a variety of reasons including cancer, infections and certain diseases. Occasionally, the colostomy is only temporary until the colon heals and then it is reversed, but most of the time a colostomy is permanent.

Instructions

• 1

  Empty the colostomy drainage bag several times each day. It's best to empty the bag before it gets too full to prevent leaks and spills.

• 2

  Remove the old colostomy bag by detaching it carefully from the skin every four to six days and discard it.

• 3

  Thoroughly clean the skin around the stoma and dry thoroughly. The skin around the stoma where the bag is attached is very tender and must be kept clean and dry.

• 4

  Apply antibiotic powder as directed to the skin around the stoma to help prevent irritation and yeast infection.

• 5

  Replace the skin barrier disk or paste to the tender skin around the stoma.

• 6

  Attach a new colostomy bag carefully over the stoma.

• 7

  Order ostomy supplies to be delivered as needed.