A colostomy is a surgical procedure that creates a stoma, an opening on the abdomen, to divert waste from the large intestine. Waste is collected in an external pouching system that adheres to the skin around the stoma. Learning to manage this pouch is fundamental post-operative care, and routine emptying is the most frequent task. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for safely and hygienically emptying a drainable colostomy pouch.
Understanding When to Empty the Pouch
The timing for draining the pouch is determined by the volume of output, not by a fixed schedule. Healthcare providers advise emptying the pouch when it is approximately one-third to one-half full. This prevents the collection from becoming too heavy, which places undue stress on the adhesive wafer.
Allowing the pouch to become overly full increases the likelihood of the seal breaking down prematurely and causing leakage. Regular emptying also helps maintain discretion, as a bulging pouch is more noticeable under clothing.
Necessary Supplies and Preparation
Gathering all necessary items beforehand streamlines the process and ensures sanitation. Before starting, ensure you have a clean toilet, toilet paper, and disposable gloves if you choose to wear them. You may also want pre-moistened wipes specifically designed for cleaning the pouch tail.
Positioning yourself correctly over the toilet bowl uses gravity to your advantage and minimizes the risk of splashing. Sitting forward on the toilet seat is often the most comfortable and effective position. Placing a small amount of toilet paper into the toilet bowl water before starting helps absorb the force of the output, reducing splashback.
Step-by-Step Guide to Emptying the Colostomy Pouch
Once positioned, unroll or unclip the tail of the drainable pouch. Many modern systems use an integrated closure that rolls up, while others use a separate plastic clamp. Gently unfold the pouch tail and direct the opening deeply into the toilet bowl, aiming for the area covered by the splash-reducing toilet paper.
Allow the contents to drain naturally into the water. Use a gentle hand-over-hand motion to roll or squeeze the pouch downward to encourage complete evacuation. This mild pressure ensures that all the waste is expelled. For liquid output, some individuals may find it helpful to flush the toilet while draining to immediately carry the waste away and reduce odor.
After the contents have been fully released, the pouch tail requires careful cleaning before resealing. Use a piece of toilet paper or a specialized wipe to meticulously clean the inside edge and the outside surfaces of the pouch opening. Ensure no residue remains on the closure mechanism, as this could prevent a tight seal and lead to odor or leakage. Pouch-specific wipes should only touch the pouch and not the skin, as their ingredients can sometimes interfere with the adhesive barrier.
While some may rinse the pouch with a small amount of water to clear the interior, many manufacturers advise against this practice. Introducing water into the pouch can potentially compromise the integrity of the skin barrier seal over time. After cleaning, securely seal the tail by rolling it up and firmly applying the clip or integrated closure, ensuring the bottom is completely flat and leak-proof.
Post-Emptying Clean Up and Hygiene
With the pouch securely closed, the immediate area must be cleaned for sanitation. Dispose of any toilet paper or wipes used to clean the pouch tail immediately, either by flushing them or placing them in a sealed waste receptacle. Check the toilet bowl to ensure no debris remains, followed by a final flush.
If any spillage occurred, wipe down the toilet seat and surrounding area with a disinfectant wipe. Finally, remove and dispose of any gloves used during the process. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least twenty seconds.