Hollister's Soap-free Stoma Cleaning Recommendation

Question

Hi gang,A few weeks back I got an email from Hollister that had ostomy care tips. It was one of many they send me that almost always goes right in the round file, but for some reason I clicked on it. I can give you guys the link if you're interested, but there wasn't much new info there. Except one thing did catch my eye. Hollister recommends that you do not use any soap at all when you clean the skin around your stoma... just plain water. Maybe I'm living in a cave, but I've never heard that recommendation before. I've heard what soaps not to use, what soaps to use... but never not to use any soap. I'm not sure how I feel about that recommendation, but I'm giving it a try. I sort of feel using something to clean the skin should be used, and then just make sure it's fully removed... but it's hard to argue with my results so far. No real new skin issues since doing it, and because of that I've also stopped using ostomy powder, skin protectant wipes and only use topical steroid foam if there is an abrasion or such on some part of my skin... to knock it the hell out of there immediately. So at least initially... it's not making things worse... and that's always good. So I'll keep at it and let you know how it goes.But I'm wondering if any of you had heard of the recommendation to not use any soap or cleaner on the skin under your barrier after you remove it? What say ye?Thanks,Bob

JamesArnod · Answer

I was told by my nurse 12 years ago not to use any soap because it would cause the appliance to not stick well. I have never used soap and have no problem. I also have a rather large (fist size) hernia. I have never used adhesive remover. I have had the odd failure due to sweating while working on a hot day. I find that I need to use a belt at least the first day after changing out my appliance. This assures a very good bond. I use a Hollister two-part system for my eurostoma.

Here is a wee hint..... I always shower and dry off before I loosen the surrounding outer tape on the stoma and then quickly rip off the inner tape. It is probably less painful to do it that way and for sure leaves very little residue glue behind. I then just rub the area down with a baby face cloth. Heat the appliance with a hairdryer, dry myself with a folded paper towel and the hairdryer, being sure I am totally dry. Then apply the warmed appliance. This works very well. I might have one or two failures per year.

Anonymous · Answer

Yup. I'm new to my colostomy life and every stoma nurse I've met has advised me no soap. So I use paper towel and warm water to make sure I've gotten the barrier remover juice off and whatever else is lurking. I think the no soap rule is just another way to help us get a secure base stuck on there.

Hollister's Soap-Free Stoma Cleaning Recommendation

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