Irrigation is a bowel management method for a colostomy. On the other hand, stoma irrigation is a process used to empty the colon by putting liquid into the colon via the stoma. The main advantage of irrigation is that it allows the patient to time their bowel movements by repeating this process regularly; it usually takes two to three months to train the colon. Additionally, stoma irrigation can help avoid constipation.
Materials Needed for Stoma Irrigation
- Irrigation bag with a cone and tubing
- Water-based lubricant
- Warm water
- Irrigation sleeves
- Modifiable Ostomy strap
- Stoma plug
- Towel or wash clothes
- Gloves
When to Irrigate
- Select a time in the day when the patient has the bathroom for themselves.
- After meals and around the same time the patient usually moves their bowels before the irrigation.
Stoma Irrigation Procedure
- Collect your irrigation supplies
- To fill the irrigation bag, clamp the tubing before filling it, then fill the irrigation bag with warm water.
- Release the bubbles by opening the lock and let water to pour through the tubing
- Suspend the irrigation pouch where the bottommost is at the patient's shoulders
- Clean the stoma with lukewarm water and washcloths
- Lubricate your small finger and gradually put it into the stoma. Make sure you note the slant of the stoma since that is just how you will put in the irrigation cone
- Wash your hands and put on a fresh pair of gloves
- Fasten the irrigation sleeve by using a modifiable strap and according to your patient's set up. Place the belt around the patient’s waist and place the sleeve over the stoma. Place the end of the sleeve into the toilet bowl. You can use a two-piece irrigation sleeve when you want the GI insides top flow straight into the bedpan.
- Smoothly lubricate the tip of the cone
- Insert the cone into the stoma
- Use the controller to control the quantity of water going into the stoma. if the patient develops nausea or feels some cramping, swiftly slow down the infusion or even stop it
- This process can take up to 45 minutes. Dispose of the sleeve and sanitize the area around the stoma with mild soap and water and tap dry after the insides have finished ejecting.
To safeguard the skin around the stoma, clean using soap and water or a cleaner. Avoid rubbing the skin and remember to pat it dry. You can also swap the patch, plug, or mini-pouch to protect your stoma.
Bottom Line
Never use stoma irrigation in cases where the patient has a hernia, stoma prolapse, abdominal radiation, a current bowel disease, kidney, or heart disease. Avoid using stoma irrigation on people with limited manual agility. Additionally, to manage any odor, you can use an odor-resistant pouch or use special deodorant tablets or liquids in the bag. For more quality Ostomy products, visit Medical Supply Depot today!
