I just wanted to share with you that I successfully changed my skin wafer etc for the first time by myself since coming home from the hospital today. I've been home a week. (The other time I changed I had some help from someone.) I feel like I can do it. Not that I look forward to it, but I know I can do it. My ileostomy is permanent, so I've got to embrace this new lifestyle, and I am going to.
One minor question. Is it normal to have some pinkness on the skin that comes from peeling up the old wafer? Do any of you wait a while before you put down the new one? I heard of a fellow who kinda walks around naked for like an hour before he puts on the new wafer. I've got that kind of time now, but not sure that will be convenient once I recover more from surgery.
I was told to change the skin wafer every five days, but it was still holding well, and no leaks around the flange, so I wonder, could I wait longer than 5 days???
Margy
total permanent ileostomy due to UC on July 13
total permanent ileostomy due to UC on July 13
trying to get it all figured out
Congrats on your first independent change!
My permanent colostomy, due to rectal cancer, was last February. I change my wafer when it begins to digenerate, usually about a week, sometimes as much as 10 days. Wear time seems to be very individual for each of us.
I'm able to remove the wafer before my shower and allow my skin to breathe for awhile on change day, but this is because I can predict when my stoma will be inactive. With the flow frequency of your illeo, you may not have that option.
Sounds like you are doing great for one week post op! Read all the online ostomy discussion forums, keep asking questions, and you'll adjust to this lifestyle just fine. Attitude is everything.
Martha
That is awesome, Margy! I hear that is a BIG step for sure. I will be having Protocolectomy with Ilostomy surgery Aug 18th. I am so looking forward to my new lifestyle too. Mine will be permanant too. Sounds like you are learning fast and that you do have a good attitude. I wish you all the best. I can't answer your question but wanted to say to you, CONGRATS . Hope to keep in touch with you, maybe you can help me after my surgery. Have a great day.... Pat