How to place a colostomy bag?

Changing the colostomy bag is a task that will become habitual for the user. After all, it is a simple procedure that can be done by oneself. However, for those who are about to start using the bag, there may be many doubts about how the process works. In this article we will explain the steps to follow to put a colostomy bag, no matter what type it is.

Preparing materials

It is important to have all the material that will be needed before starting. To do this, we recommend making a list of each of the items you will need until you get used to the change.

Also, do not forget to wash your hands before and after the procedure. It is not necessary to wear gloves when changing your own colostomy bag, but it is recommended that caregivers wear them as an extra to hand washing.

Insert the one-piece colostomy bag.

When we have the one-piece colostomy bag, the change is as simple as removing the skin barrier protector and gluing it to the skin, aligning the stoma with the hole that is made to fit. But here we share the steps that must be followed to make sure that at all times the process is clean and easy for the user.

1. Remove the colostomy bag to be changed. This is accomplished by carefully peeling from one corner of the top of the skin barrier until it is completely removed. It is better to slowly pull the skin away from the adhesive than to pull the pouch off, because the latter will cause more irritation to the skin.
2. Wash the stoma and the surrounding skin with warm water and neutral soap. We can clean the stoma without fear, taking into account that although it is a delicate part of the body, it is not an open wound. Dry with gentle touches with a towel, without rubbing. Some bleeding is normal due to the vascularity of the stoma, but if in doubt, it is always better to consult a doctor.
3. Measure the stoma. The stoma will change in size in the months following surgery, so it is important to measure it as it should be the same size and shape as the skin barrier to protect the skin around the stoma.
4. Cut the skin barrier adhesive according to the shape and measurements of the stoma. If the barrier is already pre-cut to the correct size, no further trimming is necessary.
5. Place the colostomy bag by gluing from the bottom upwards, making sure that it adapts to all the folds of the skin so that there are no unadhered spaces and thus avoid the formation of bubbles. Similar to lining a notebook with adhesive paper.

Once the pouch has been placed, it is advisable to place the hand over the area with the adhesive for a few minutes to provide heat and promote adherence to the skin. Once this step has been completed, the colostomy bag has been correctly placed and the user can continue with his activities, without forgetting to wash his hands after the procedure.

Insert the two-piece colostomy bag.

Remember that two-piece bags are those where the skin barrier and the bag come separately, so it is possible to change just the bag without removing the skin barrier from the skin. In the following instructions we will tell you what to do no matter which part you are changing.

1. Remove the colostomy bag to be changed. We can remove the pouch first and then the skin barrier, or we can also remove everything at the same time. If you are changing the skin barrier, continue reading. If you are only changing the pouch, proceed to step 6.
2. Remove the skin barrier. It is best to start from a top corner and gradually pull the skin away from the adhesive. This is better than pulling the pouch to peel it all off, as this will cause further irritation to the skin.
3. Wash the stoma and the surrounding skin with warm water and neutral soap. We can clean the stoma without fear, taking into account that although it is a delicate part of the body, it is not an open wound. Dry with gentle touches with a towel, without rubbing. Some bleeding is normal due to the vascularity of the stoma, but if in doubt, it is always better to consult a doctor.
4. Measure the stoma. The stoma will change in size in the months following surgery, so it is important to measure it as it should be the same size and shape as the skin barrier to protect the skin around the stoma.
5. Cut the skin barrier adhesive according to the shape and measurements of the stoma. If the barrier is already pre-cut to the correct size, no further trimming is necessary.
6. Attach the colostomy bag to the skin barrier. This should be done according to the manufacturer's instructions, as there are different ways of coupling: by pressure, with a safety piece or even by means of an adhesive.
7. Check that the colostomy bag is correctly attached with a slight tug. Some systems even make a slight click to facilitate the task.
8. Close the emptying part. This is only when using open colostomy bags. It is important to remember that all closure systems are very secure, so it is not necessary to add other materials.

When these steps are completed, the colostomy bag has been correctly placed and the user can continue with his/her activities, without forgetting to wash his/her hands after the procedure.

What do I do after putting on my colostomy bag?

Nowadays there are many options to choose the pouch and accessories that best suit your needs, such as the ones you can find in our online store. If the colostomy bag was placed correctly, it is only necessary to wash your hands at the end of the procedure. Afterwards, you will be able to perform almost any activity without any problems.