Many of you may already be doing this, but here's something simple that I started to do several months ago and find that it really helps a lot. On the day I change my appliance, I use a pen and write the date of the change on the FRONT side of the pouch (bag) in the upper corner (right or left--doesn't matter). I face (write) the date toward me, not upside down. I was always forgetting when I last changed my appliance, and this has really helped me to remember. Use a ball point pen that won't wash off in the shower and keep it with your supplies.

I also line my supplies up the same way every time so I don't forget to do something.

Another tip for those that use paste is to fill the sink with hot water and let the paste float for a few minutes. It softens it right up.

I buy 4 x 4 gauze in bulk at my medical supply store. The gauze works much better than tissues or paper towels. I have some ready near the shower. After I shower, I open the gauze up, divide it width-wise and wrap my stoma first thing after I shut off the water. Then I towel dry. The gauze really keep any leakage in place--holds it well while I change my appliance.

If you have been hesitant about showering without your appliance, you are really missing out on a wonderful opportunity to give your stoma/skin some "freedom". Try it; you'll really enjoy it.

The night before I change my appliance, I try to stop eating and drinking by 7:30 p.m. The next morning "Rosie" is nice and quiet for the whole change.

All I use to change my appliance is:

a two piece appliance--moldable wafer and open-ended pouch
pouch clamp
pen
plastic bag for old appliance, etc.
small flashlight (for checking skin around stoma)
mirror (to check to make sure "tupperware" is all snapped down)
paste
gauze squares for clean ups
long-stick q-tip (for pressing down around wafer after application)
skin barrier wipe
belt
hairblower

I have some scarring near my naval and down the center of my belly from multiple surgeries, so I turn and apply the wafer diamond shaped instead of square on my belly. This way the wafer covers over my scar and won't lift up after a couple of days.

I hope these tips help. I've had my permanent end ileostomy since 2007 with few problems and rare leakages. My ileostomy is on the left side.

Caty

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Caty,