Closing a drainable ostomy pouch correctly is a straightforward procedure that directly influences security, comfort, and skin health. The proper application of a standard plastic bar clip, sometimes referred to as a clamp, creates a sealed bottom that prevents output from escaping. Mastering this technique ensures the pouching system functions as intended. This process requires thorough preparation and precise physical action to secure the material.
Essential Preparation Before Clipping
Before closing, completely empty the pouch contents into the toilet or a designated receptacle. Waiting until the pouch is approximately one-third to one-half full before draining helps manage the weight and prevents undue tension on the adhesive barrier. After drainage, the pouch tail, or spout, must be thoroughly cleaned to remove all traces of stool or liquid output.
Cleaning requires wiping the inside surfaces of the open tail multiple times with soft tissue or a dry wipe. Any remaining effluent or residue on the plastic surfaces can compromise the seal, preventing the clip from gripping the material effectively and leading to a leak. It is equally important to clean the exterior of the pouch tail, especially the area where the material will be folded.
The presence of moisture is a significant factor in seal failure, as it inhibits the plastic layers from tightly adhering when compressed by the clip. Gently dab the entire area completely dry using a fresh wipe or toilet paper.
Step-by-Step Guide to Secure Clip Application
Once the pouch tail is clean and dry, the process of closing begins with aligning the edges of the tail. The first fold is made by taking the very end of the pouch tail and folding it upward, away from the floor, usually about one to two inches of material.
The material must then be rolled tightly toward the pouch body, ensuring the sides remain perfectly aligned with each other during each rotation. The goal is to create a firm, smooth cuff of material, typically requiring two or three tight rolls to achieve the necessary thickness and crease. Maintaining this tight, even roll across the entire width is essential for distributing the clip’s pressure evenly.
With the rolled material held firmly in place, the hard plastic bar clip is then aligned directly over the entire width of the rolled cuff. The clip’s full length must completely cover the rolled pouch material without any plastic extending beyond the clip’s edges.
The clip is then pressed shut with firm, even pressure until a distinct click is heard or a definite snap is felt across the entire bar length. This audible or tactile confirmation indicates that the clip’s locking mechanism has fully engaged. Applying the clip perpendicular to the pouch’s length ensures the seal is secure and minimizes the possibility of the clip slipping off during activity.
Ensuring a Leak-Proof Seal and Troubleshooting
After the clip is applied, a brief post-closure check should be performed to confirm the integrity of the seal. Gently press along the length of the clip to ensure it feels uniformly tight and that no material is bulging or slipping out from underneath. Visually inspect the sides of the rolled cuff to ensure the plastic is fully contained within the clip’s jaws.
An immediate leak or a persistent dampness near the closure often indicates that some residue was left on the tail, preventing a complete seal. In this case, the clip should be removed, the pouch tail re-cleaned and dried, and the folding and clipping process repeated with greater attention to hygiene. Another common issue is insufficient rolling, which means the clip is not engaging enough layers of plastic to create a firm barrier.
If the pouch material was folded unevenly, the clip’s pressure may be concentrated in one area, creating a weak point in the seal. Troubleshooting this requires unrolling the tail and ensuring the edges are perfectly flush before initiating the two or three tight rolls again. Regular inspection of the plastic clip is also worthwhile; a worn, cracked, or deformed clip may not maintain the necessary tension and should be replaced immediately.