OstomyRN

12/21/2023

Another day of helping a patient prep his ileostomy and urostomy supplies.

I love helping people move to the next level of Ostomy care. Once we’ve found a system that works, prepping for the next few changes is a game changer for most patients. It helps decrease anxiety knowing they have everything prepped for the next change or a leak.

Things to keep in your premade kits:
Pre-cut wafers
Pouches
Grey trash bag
Deodorizer
Barrier ring
Skin prep
Powder
Scissors

I use a ziplock bag and make 3-4 change kits for patients to keep in their purse/car and to take with them to their dr appointments. I don’t suggest bringing unneeded supplies because it make it more stressful to have to navigate thru those items when you need to make an appliance change.

What items do you put in your prep Kit?

12/05/2023

—Hydrate—

💧 Hydration is key for ostomates! Staying well-hydrated supports overall health and helps prevent common challenges like dehydration. Remember to sip fluids throughout the day and find a hydration routine that works for you.

Consider oral rehydration solutions to maintain electrolyte balance, especially during warmer days or increased activity. Let's prioritize hydration to avoid dehydration challenges. Sip wisely, stay well! 💙

Visit my site for helpful handouts and downloads to guide you on your Ostomy care journey.

10/07/2023

Happy Ostomy Awareness Day to all!

09/21/2023

—Schedule—

Following a consistent schedule for changing the ostomy pouch to maintain hygiene and prevent leaks or odors. Having a plan and sticking to it can also help decrease anxiety around potential leaks.

Changing the appliance every 3-4 days is a great starting spot. I generally recommend something like a Monday/Thursday (or Tuesday/Friday) schedule, but choose what schedule works for you.

What’s your schedule like? Comment below…

08/25/2023

All too often I see patients using a barrier wipe during the “crusting” technique and it isn’t sealing in the powder to protect from further breakdown. The appliance continues to leak and patient’s skin continues to breakdown. That’s when I switch patients to Cavilon No Sting Barrier wipes. Yes, there are a million different barrier wipes out there, but I really like Cavilon No Sting wipes. They are a game changer. Soon I’ll make a video illustrating the difference so you can see for yourself.

Have you noticed a difference in barrier wipes? Comment below!

05/17/2023

Emergency kits!!

I made some emergency kits (from donated supplies) to drop off at doctors offices for patients who need to change their appliance or have a leak and don’t have supplies!

Have you had a leak or needed to change your appliance and the office doesn’t have anything to help?

02/14/2023

With all the talk of chatGPT, I thought I should try asking what the top five reasons to use an ostomy nurse. Here’s what I got…

What are your top reasons for using an Ostomy nurse? What do you think about the results from chatGPT?

02/01/2023

I’m taking a 40-day mindfulness challenge and the speaker shared this quote before the mindfulness training. How appropriate to remind myself and my patients…

Share with a friend that might need this reminder today…

01/09/2023

Just a cute little info graphic to show you everything that’s included in an appointment with an Ostomy nurse. My care goes far beyond the actual appointment.

10/31/2022

Happy Halloween from one of the Boo Boo Crew!

I love my job, I love my team, and I LOVE helping patients and families with wound and Ostomy care!

Thanks for the shirt!

10/27/2022

10/01/2022

—Happy World Ostomy Day!!!—

I’m happy to be part of this community supporting ostomates and their families. I’m celebrating two years of helping ostomates and I’m excited to continue on.

Can’t wait to see all the World Ostomy Day Posts!