Skin Attention

 Some ostomates can use anything on their skin and “get away with it.” Others have to search for just the right combination of products for satisfactory use. New ostomates benefit from the follow-up visits to the WOCN (Wound Ostomy and Continence Nurse) because careful consideration is given to the various products used around the stoma area.

      If you are experimenting on your own, consider the following information for using a different product. Patch testing is recommended before proceeding to use a new product. The skin on the inner surface of the arm or leg or the opposite side of the abdominal area from the stoma are good areas to use for a simple test. For example, cut a piece of the washer, tape, disc, etc. and affix it to a chosen area. Secure it with a strip of micropore tape and leave it on the area for 48 to 72 hours (editor’s note: Be careful of the tape too; it could be a problem also). Any burning sensation or itching during the testing time could signify sensitivity to the material being used and therefore, should be removed immediately, washed and dried well. After 48 to 72 hours, remove the “patch” and if there is no redness or irritation, it is safe to assume that the product can be used. With some people, a “delayed reaction” may not occur until a few days later. For more extensive testing than this, contact a dermatologist.

(by John Sarbacker, MD & Kay Carlson, ET)