Here are some unique properties of stoma dressings that make them appropriate for stoma care. They include;
- They have a superb absorbent ability: In many cases, stomas are conduits for removing waste from the body. Also, they secrete a considerable amount of fluids, so the ability to take in significant amounts of fluids is crucial to the function of stoma dressings. Furthermore, the power of these dressings to take in large quantities of exudates prevents the maceration of the skin around the stoma.
- They are water and bacteria-proof: Stoma dressings are showerproof. They prevent contamination of the stoma by bacteria. This is important because infection of the stoma can cause significant pain, reduce the ability of the stoma to relieve distal obstruction and, in extreme cases, lead to sepsis. Additionally, stoma dressings allow the aeration of wounds which helps to quicken healing.
- They adhere to stomas firmly: Typically, stoma dressings are self-adherent. They possess an innate adhesive that is easy on the skin and rarely induces allergic reactions. This helps to secure the bandages in place.
- They can be used for different kinds of stomas: Stomas come in different sizes and shapes and can be in many body parts. So, stoma dressings are designed to conform to various contours and parts of the body. Also, these dressings are pretty comfortable to wear and are easily handled.
Stoma dressings are used in the following situations:
- Colostomy. This is an opening created on the colon or large intestine and attached to the outside abdominal wall to expel waste. After this surgical procedure, a stoma dressing is used to help connect the stoma bag to the stoma site. The stoma bag helps receive waste from the colon.
- Ileostomy: In this procedure, the lowest part of the large intestine, the ileum, is attached to the abdominal wall to remove waste efficiently. A stoma dressing is used to provide secure fixation of the stoma bag to the abdominal surface. Stoma dressing helps minimize the risk of infection of the stoma site and maceration of the peristomal area.
- Tracheostomy: A small hole is created in the trachea to promote a good breathing pattern. A stoma dressing may be used if there is drainage from the type of tracheostomy site or irritation due to the tracheostomy tube rubbing against the skin.
You can follow these tips to apply stoma dressings. They Include;
- The area around the stoma should be washed with soap and water and patted dry. Adhesion will improve if you first wash off skin preparations, such as creams or lotions. If your skin is unusually greasy, you can use an alcohol wipe to clean it.
- If you don't want the dressing to touch your stoma, apply some skin-safe lubricant or petroleum jelly to the area.
- Take off the protective paper backing to reveal the dressing and sticky side.
- Position the dressing over your stoma so that the adhesive border is flush with the skin around it, and press lightly to secure.
- Remove the dressing by peeling and lifting it gently away from the skin, beginning at one of the corner points and working the adhesive remover solution under the adhesive border.
Conclusion
Stoma dressings are specialized wound care products designed for appropriate stoma care. They have excellent absorptive properties and are easy to handle.