If you have a colostomy bag, irrigation can be a way to avoid using it.Irrigation won't always be enough to replace the use of a bag, but it may allow you to use a cap, mini-pouch, or patch.Irrigating involves putting water into your large intestine to flush it out.This can be done on a daily basis, giving you more control over your bowels.This process will allow for a more active and care-free life with a stoma.After attaching the irrigation sleeve, you will be able to irrigate your colostomy with water.
Step 1: You can learn the irrigation process from your healthcare professional.
If you are going to use colostomy irrigation, you need to learn the proper technique from your doctor, surgeon, or ostomy nurse.It is best to have a professional demonstrate the procedure for the first time.Ask your care provider if they have any questions about using the irrigation system.Don't be afraid to ask for a repeat demonstration, such as, "Could you please show me how to do this again next week so that I know I'm doing it right?"
Step 2: You need the supplies.
You need an irrigation bag, tubing, a cone tip, irrigation sleeve, an ostomy belt, and a clip.It is possible to get some water-based lubrication on the end of the cone.Ask your doctor or ostomy nurse for recommendations if you want to get materials.If you want to test different products, request a free sample from manufacturers or suppliers.The ostomy belt and irrigation bag should last a long time.When the bag develops an odor, replace it every 1-2 months.You can either use the brand that you left the hospital with or switch brands.It is a matter of personal preference.
Step 3: You can create an irrigation schedule that works for you.
The time it takes to refill depends on your body and diet.The majority of people irrigate daily or every few days.Once you establish your elimination pattern, Irrigate your colostomy on a schedule.If you experience leakage, try irrigating more frequently.If you experience leakage, try irrigating daily.It takes about an hour to do a full irrigation.If you set aside a specific time each day to water, it will help you remember to do it.You may no longer have to wear the colostomy pouch once this pattern is established.You will use a plug, cap, or mini-pouch instead.Discuss this with your doctor.
Step 4: Before you start irrigating, you should prepare your supplies.
All of your materials should be assembled when it is time to water.Attach the end of the irrigation tube to the cone tip.Water does not flow until you are ready to use it.You should fill your irrigation bag with between 500 and 1,500 liters of body-temperature water.Hang the irrigation bag above your head.Attach the ostomy belt to the irrigation sleeve and put it around your waist.You can hang your irrigation bag.There is a clothes hanger on the corner of the bathroom mirror.For everyday use, consider installing a more permanent fixture.The irrigation sleeve's ring should hold your sto in the center when you attach your belt to your body.For the first few irrigations, many ostomy nurses suggest using 500 liters of water.Depending on what your doctor or nurse recommends, you can use more or less.
Step 5: Decide if you want to sit or stand.
The choice to stand beside the toilet can be tiring for some people.Some beginners may find sitting on the toilet challenging.There is a chair next to the toilet.While you position yourself, keep the end of the sleeve clipped.The whole device should rest on the floor if you are standing.Keep your appliances hanging if you are sitting.Put on rubber or latex gloves.While you get comfortable with your new equipment, this can help you stay clean.
Step 6: Put your irrigation sleeve in position.
Attach the irrigation sleeve to the belt.The irrigation water should run directly into the toilet if the other end of the irrigation sleeve is moved.
Step 7: Air bubbles can be found in the tubing.
The water can flow into the irrigation sleeve if the clamps are released.Once the air bubbles have been removed, re-clamp the tubing.
Step 8: The cone has a tip.
K-Y Jelly or Lubrifax can be used to lubricate the pointed end of the cone.If you want the cone to go into your stoma, you need to insert the tip.Don't force the tip into the stoma.The tip needs to fit so that the amount of leaking is minimized.It is possible that you will react to being touched by clenching up.If this happens, take some deep breaths and try again.
Step 9: Troubleshoot issues with cones.
Water may leak from the cone if you try to insert it.If that is the case, make sure the tip of the cone is firmly in your stomach.Stop and start the water's flow if you have any obstructions in the stoma.Remove the cone and then insert it again.
Step 10: The water can be allowed into the cone.
Slowly release the tube, allowing the water from the irrigation bag to slowly flow into the cone.If you start to feel unwell, slow or stop the water, then try again.The process should take about 5 minutes.
Step 11: Before removing the cone, hold it in place.
For about 10 seconds, hold the cone in the same position as the irrigation bag has emptied.After this time has passed, carefully remove the cone.You will start to excrete water and waste after you put the water in.At one time, this may happen in stages.
Step 12: The output needs to be drained.
The contents of the waste can be emptied into the toilet by draining it through the irrigation sleeve.When you are learning how your body will respond to irrigation, keep the sleeve on for a full hour.You don't have to stay in the bathroom the whole time, just get up and move around.You can empty your sleeve into the toilet if you feel like expelling more waste.Some people don't need to keep the sleeve on for long.To avoid spilling, be sure to tighten the sleeve.
Step 13: The irrigation sleeve should be removed and washed.
Remove your irrigation sleeve after the full hour of drainage.If you want to dry the irrigation bag, rinse the sleeve in cool water.Some people recommend rinsing your sleeve with a solution of water andvinegar.
Step 14: It's a good idea to replace your cap, patch, or mini-pouch.
Use a cloth, soap, and water to clean around your stoma.pat the skin dry with a paper towel, toilet paper, or tissue.Most people who irrigate only use a mini-pouch, patch, or cap between irrigations.Make sure your appliance is clean and replace it when you need to water.