A colostomy bag is a medical device that collects waste from the body when a portion of the large intestine (colon) is brought through an opening in the abdominal wall. This opening, known as a stoma, allows stool to exit the body into the attached pouch. Regular emptying of this pouch is important for maintaining personal comfort, hygiene, and preventing complications like skin irritation or leakage. Consistent care ensures the system functions effectively, supporting overall well-being.
Gathering Your Supplies
Before emptying your colostomy bag, gather all necessary items. You will need a toilet or commode for waste collection, soft toilet paper for initial wiping, and moist wet wipes for thorough cleansing. Having a barrier cream nearby, if you use one, can be beneficial for skin protection. Also, a clean pouch clamp or clip, if your system uses one, and small disposal bags.
The toilet paper aids in removing bulk waste, while wet wipes offer a more complete clean around the drainage area of the pouch. Barrier cream contributes to skin health by creating a protective layer against enzymatic irritation from stool. Disposal bags ensure that soiled materials are contained and can be discarded discreetly and hygienically.
The Emptying Process
Begin by positioning yourself on or in front of the toilet, ensuring the bottom of the colostomy pouch is oriented over the toilet bowl. This alignment allows gravity to assist in the controlled release of contents directly into the water.
Next, carefully unclip or unroll the tail of the drainable pouch, opening it fully. Some pouches feature a soft, foldable tail, while others have a rigid clip mechanism. Gently direct the open end of the pouch downward, allowing the accumulated stool to flow into the toilet.
Use a gentle, downward squeezing motion along the length of the pouch to encourage all contents to exit. This helps to ensure the pouch is as empty as possible. Avoid vigorous squeezing or pulling, which could strain the seal around the stoma.
As the pouch empties, you might notice the consistency of the stool, which can vary based on diet and the location of the stoma. Continue to guide the contents until no more stool is flowing from the pouch. This thorough emptying is important for maintaining pouch integrity and preventing premature fullness.
Cleaning and Securing the Pouch
After the pouch is empty, gently wipe the inside and outside of the pouch’s drainage end with toilet paper. Pay close attention to the edges and folds of the tail to ensure no visible waste remains.
Follow this with a moist wet wipe to meticulously clean the drainage spout. The goal is to remove all traces of stool, which contain digestive enzymes and bacteria that can contribute to odor and skin irritation if left on the pouch. A clean pouch tail helps maintain hygiene and prevents the accumulation of material that could compromise the seal.
Once the drainage end is thoroughly cleaned, carefully fold or roll up the tail of the pouch. If your pouch uses a clamp, ensure it is securely attached across the folded end. For integrated closure systems, press the surfaces together firmly until you hear or feel a secure click or seal.
After re-securing the pouch, gently check the closure point to confirm it is fully sealed and no gaps are present. A properly secured pouch prevents leaks, which can lead to skin irritation around the stoma and discomfort. Ensuring a complete seal is a fundamental step in maintaining the integrity of the ostomy system.
Disposal and Hygiene
After the pouch is cleaned and secured, any used toilet paper or wet wipes should be immediately placed into a small, sealable disposal bag. This practice contains odors and prevents the spread of bacteria.
Once all soiled materials are properly contained, dispose of the sealed bag in a waste receptacle. Proper disposal helps to prevent the spread of microorganisms and maintains a clean living space. It also ensures discretion and reduces any potential for unpleasant odors.
Finally, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This step is critical for personal hygiene, removing any potential contaminants acquired during the emptying process. Handwashing helps prevent the transmission of bacteria and maintains overall health.