by MonetteH

Created on: May 28, 2010   Last Updated: October 05, 2010

Patients living with Ostomy face health related challenges that require special products and attention. Ostomy is a condition that requires a surgically created opening in the body to discharge the body’s waste. The stoma is often protruding through the abdominal wall. The stoma is the end of the ureter or small bowel. Patients are able to live a normal productive life with the recent advancements in the condition and products that are being offered in the medical market. Accessing the degree of ostomy and the products required to maintain the condition is important to the daily maintenance of this condition.

Skin Barriers

Skin barriers are installed directly on the skin of the patient at the opening of the stoma. The protruding stoma is gently covered and the drainage bags are connected to the skin barrier. The barriers offered come in a variety or colors and textures. Flesh toned barriers offer a natural appearance. The clear plastic skin barrier matches with any skin tone and has various shapes to fit the size of the incision.

 
Drainage Bags

Due to the ostomy condition, the patient requires the use of bags that attach to the skin barriers on the body. There are a variety of bags that allow the patient to maintain any lifestyle by using the various bags offered. The one-piece closed bag is often used only once. This bag is able to hold the contents dispersed by the body and is disposable. The one-piece drainable option allows the patient to drain the contents for more than one use. The contents are ejected from a plug located at the bottom of the bag. The color and material of the bags vary based on the desires of the patient. Many patients utilize the flesh-toned bags that offer a more flattering appearance to conceal the condition. Many drainage bags can go undetected if installed properly.

Cleaners/ Deodorants

Maintaining the cleanliness of the opening area is important in preventing possible infection. The various cleaners and deodorants available allow for discrete maintenance at any location. Many cleansers are made of natural products to prevent irritation of the opening. There are a variety of deodorant items offered to conceal any odors that may be caused by the condition. The deodorants offered do not irritate the opening area and are available in various refreshing options. Combination cleansers with deodorizers are also offered in liquid or powder form.

Patients with Ostomy have an appreciation and optimism for life that remains unquestioned. The condition may effect certain aspects of their physical appearance yet many patients find they are able to live full, productive, satisfying lives with no real visual indication of their condition. Patients are not restricted to wearing large clothing to conceal the medically necessary items to function daily. Living with any condition can be challenge, yet the survivors living with Ostomy provide inspiration with their lust for life.

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