AJ’s Ostomy Product Tips | No.9 Selecting Medical Supplies After Surgery
You have had an Ostomy Surgery and now are home. Do you keep wearing the same product the Hospital issued to you? Likely Not. Here’s what you need to agree to right away.
1) The ostomy product you are wearing wasn’t selected specifically for you.
It was selected because the brand likely won a hospital contract. The model was chosen because it was most likely to work during your hospital visit. They don’t need to account for your daily Yoga class. Your body and your stoma are specific. Each bump, dimple or scar is unique to you. How your Ostomy device fits and performs is special as well.
If you are contemplating a product switch, contact the various Ostomy providers or your NSWOC (Nurse specializing in wound, ostomy and continence) They can often offer FREE samples of products that might work better for you.
2) Your Body Will Change!
In the weeks and months after your surgery, you and your stoma may change shape and size. Your Ostomy appliance likely needs to change as well.
3) Don’t settle for second Best.
Routine Leaks and daily changes should not be accepted as normal. It likely means you could be in the wrong product. You should be able to wear an appliance leak-free for a set number of days and repeat this consistency. If you can’t repeat your success, you should be questioning your product. It might be time for a change!
If you think it’s time to try a new brand, try the various manufactures. Hollister, Convatec and Coloplast all have a patient care number you can call and speak to a qualified product specialist. They can help you determine what might work better for you.
Another option is a visit to your NSWOC. They are highly trained and can help to find a product or system that will work better for you. Did you know that InnerGood offers free NSWOC support to our customers via Zoom or phone? If you need help, book an appointment here. You find other great tips on our blog, or on our Instagram page, all curated by our President, AJ Leveille.
