Welcome back to the Frank and Lizzie Show blog! Whether you are a nurse, a caregiver, or a patient managing your own health, navigating daily ostomy care can sometimes feel overwhelming. To help you feel confident and secure, we have put together an essential Ostomy Care Checklist.

This bedside checklist covers the fundamentals of daily stoma care, skin assessment, and when it is necessary to escalate concerns. Below, we break down the most important steps and best practices.

How to Empty Your Ostomy Pouch

Emptying your pouch at the right time is crucial for preventing accidents. Always ensure you empty the pouch when it is about 1/3 to 1/2 full to avoid leaks or detachment.

Follow these steps for a clean and efficient process:

• Wash your hands well with soap and water.
• Open the end of the pouch (or tail) by raising it, unrolling or unclamping the end, then lower to drain into the toilet or container.
• Pro Tip: Place toilet paper on the water surface to reduce splashing; sitting backward on the toilet can also help.
• Clean the pouch opening after emptying with toilet tissue. It is good practice to clean the inner portion of the opening first, then the outer portion.
• Add lubricant or deodorizer (if used) then close or re-clamp the pouch.
• Wash your hands thoroughly again.

How to Change Your Ostomy Pouch

Changing your pouch requires a bit more preparation. It is highly recommended to time pouch changes when your output is slower, taking care to avoid changing soon after meals.

Here is your step-by-step changing checklist:

• Wash your hands with soap and water.
• Gather all supplies near a sink: wafer, pouch, scissors, measuring guide, wipes, disposal bag, and accessories if needed.
• Prepare the barrier/wafer by cutting it to fit the stoma, allowing it to be 1/16 inch larger than the stoma size.
• Warm the barrier/wafer by holding it between your hands or under your arm.
• For urinary stomas, have gauze or paper towels ready to wick urine, or use a stoma output capture cartridge.
• Empty the pouch before removal.
• Remove the pouch and barrier gently using the push-pull technique: pull the skin up to create tension while pushing the pouch away from the skin.
• Use an adhesive remover or a warm cloth during removal if needed.
• Dispose of the used pouch and barrier in a plastic bag, then put it in the trash.
• Clean the skin with warm water. Mild soap without moisturizer is optional, but be sure to rinse if soap is used.
• Dry the skin completely using soft, dry, lint-free wipes.
• Inspect the skin and stoma for any irritation or changes.
• Apply stoma powder only on broken or moist skin, and brush off the excess. Use skin protectants as directed.
• Remove the backing, apply a barrier ring if needed, place the wafer over the stoma, and press gently.
• Securely close the pouch before applying it in case the stoma has output, then attach the pouch in a two-piece system.
• Press on the barrier and pouch at the base for 30 to 60 seconds to seal.
• Wash your hands.

Top Ostomy Care Tips and Tricks

To keep your skin healthy and your pouch secure, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Measure your stoma before cutting the barrier, as stoma size can change.
• Keep the skin clean and dry at all times.
• Use barrier rings or paste to smooth out any uneven skin.
• Use gentle adhesive removers for delicate skin.
• For urinary stomas, consider using an overnight drainage bag and keep the tubing untwisted.
• Optionally, use an ostomy belt for extra security and comfort.
• Always keep extra supplies handy.
• If you have any concerns about your skin or stoma, contact an ostomy nurse.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is intended for educational reference only and does not establish a standard of care or replace clinical judgment. Always consult with your healthcare provider or an ostomy nurse for personalized medical advice.