A Tip From a Nurse Using Paste as a Waterproof Filler

[Diane C]

Hi all,

When I had my recent surgery in March, I talked with an ostomy nurse about reducing leakage. My ileostomy was created on a (MACE) scar so the skin dips deeply on both sides of the wafer adhering to my abdomen. I use seals (sometimes rolled but not always), Stomahesive strips, and even the material when I cut out stoma holes on my wafer to buttress the skin on my abdomen and try to make the area flat.

The nurse suggested PASTE and I'd used that before -- around the hole for the stoma. But this was a new use. If you put a small amount of paste (any kind, I think) and press it down and add a small amount of water to it and press it in place, it acts like a horizontal or vertical (or other shaped) kind of material to fill in gaps on your abdomen. Give it a try with a few droplets of water -- and let it dry.

Good luck!

[JackieRose]

Thank you, Dianne for sharing this suggestion. I was just thinking of trying paste myself on my uneven abdomen.

[xctm1]

On my first post-op visit to the wound care nurse, I was demonstrating how I changed my bag and she made a comment I have always remembered, "Paste is your friend, don't be afraid to use plenty." That was 16 yrs ago. Stay safe and take care.

[Diane C]

I hope the nurse's tip worked! Keep on keeping (it) on!