A colostomy bag, also known as an ostomy appliance, is a waterproof pouch worn externally on the abdomen to collect waste after a surgical procedure called a colostomy. This appliance creates a secure system for managing bodily waste. Proper disposal of the used pouch is a critical aspect of ostomy care, ensuring hygiene, discretion, and compliance with public health standards. Understanding the correct methods for handling and discarding the appliance is key to maintaining a clean and worry-free routine, whether at home or while traveling.
Pre-Disposal Steps and Preparation
Before a used colostomy pouch is placed into the trash, preparation steps are necessary to contain waste and minimize odor. For drainable pouches, such as those used for ileostomies and urostomies, the contents should first be emptied into the toilet. This involves opening the tail of the pouch and allowing gravity to move the output into the water.
After emptying, the tail of the pouch should be wiped clean with toilet paper or a disposable wipe to remove any residual waste before it is sealed. Some users may choose to rinse the inside of the pouch with a small amount of warm water before sealing it, though this is not always necessary and can diminish the pouch’s odor-sealing capabilities over time. For closed pouches, the entire pouch is generally removed and discarded without emptying the contents.
Once the pouch is ready for disposal, it must be securely sealed to prevent leakage or the escape of gas and odor. This is often accomplished by folding the adhesive barrier, or flange, in half and securing it with the pouch’s clip or closure mechanism. Immediately after handling the used appliance, thorough hand hygiene is required.
Standard Household Disposal Procedures
The used colostomy pouch is ready for placement in the standard household refuse. In most jurisdictions, ostomy appliances are classified as non-infectious domestic waste, similar to diapers or feminine hygiene products, and do not require specialized medical waste disposal. Users should confirm local municipal guidelines, but typically, this waste stream is acceptable for disposal.
The sealed pouch should be placed into a smaller, opaque plastic bag, such as the disposal bags provided by ostomy supply manufacturers. This practice, often referred to as double-bagging, is performed to ensure discretion and provides an additional layer of containment. The opaque bag prevents the contents from being visible to others.
This secondary bag, containing the used appliance, should then be tied securely and placed into a trash container with a tight-fitting lid. Some individuals choose to place the sealed waste directly into an exterior garbage bin immediately to eliminate any chance of odor inside the home.
Techniques for Managing Odor and Leakage
Managing odor is a primary concern during the disposal process. Specialized disposal bags designed for ostomy waste often incorporate scent-neutralizing technology or a charcoal lining to absorb odors. These bags are typically small, opaque, and come with tie handles for a tight seal.
Before sealing the pouch for disposal, internal deodorants can be added to the appliance to neutralize odors. These come in the form of lubricating drops or gels that are poured into the pouch after emptying and before a full appliance change. Lubricating deodorants also help contents slide to the bottom of the pouch, which can prevent pancaking and make the emptying process easier.
For an extra measure of containment and discretion, the sealed pouch can be wrapped in absorbent material before being placed into the disposal bag. Using a few sheets of newspaper, paper towels, or a paper sack can help contain any minor residual moisture and further mask the shape of the appliance.
Disposal When Traveling or Away From Home
Disposal requires adaptations when away from home, such as in public restrooms or during extended travel. When using a public restroom, it is helpful to select a stall that offers a disposal receptacle, such as a sanitary bin, which provides a discreet option for placing the sealed waste. If the pouch needs to be emptied, sitting backward on the toilet can provide a more comfortable and controlled angle for drainage, reducing the risk of splashing.
For travel, planning ahead and carrying the necessary supplies is important to maintain the established hygiene standards. Small, opaque travel bags, such as scented diaper disposal sacks or dog waste bags, are excellent portable alternatives to manufacturer-provided disposal bags. These can be carried in a small, separate travel kit with wipes and hand sanitizer for quick changes.
During air travel, the change in cabin pressure may cause the pouch to “balloon” with gas, necessitating more frequent emptying. It is advisable to keep a full change of supplies and disposal bags in a carry-on bag rather than checked luggage.