Care of your ileostomy

This information is a reminder of the skills you will have learned in the practical sessions with your nurses. It is meant only as a guide and as you become more confident you will need to refer to it less. Keep it with your appliances so that you have it at hand to refer to.

Preparing to change your appliance/pouch/bag

• A sink with clean warm water
• Disposable washcloths or kitchen towel
• Kitchen towel
• New appliance
• Plastic disposal bag
• Adhesive remover spray

You may also be using:

• Seals
• Powder
• Barrier Wipes

How to change your pouch

• Gather the items listed above (this may vary depending on your needs)
• Use a small amount of adhesive remover to slowly and gently remove the used pouch
• Place the used pouch into the disposal bag
• Wipe away any soiling around your stoma and skin
• Wash the stoma and surrounding skin with warm water and cloths
• Gently but thoroughly dry the skin
• Check the skin for any red or sore patches—use a barrier wipe/stoma powder/seal if advised to do so
• Remove the backing paper from the new pouch
• Apply the new pouch, pressing down gently with a warm hand to help it stick
• Don’t forget to close the Velcro fastening
• Dispose of all rubbish and used pouch, clear away your equipment and wash your hands

Any problems?

For common issues people with an ileostomy experience, please refer to our discharge information for ileostomy patients leaflet and contact your stoma care nurse if you remain concerned.