Wanted to share this little tip I got from an ostomy nurse. Did you know that you can use 4x4 skin barrier sheets to make your own barrier rings?
You can get 2 rings from each sheet by cutting them out yourself. I like to make mine the size of the pouch flange or just a little smaller.
Most pouch makers sell these. My favorites are Convatec Stomahesive and Hollister Hollyhesive.
Is this just to save a dollar, or do you think they are better? Regards, IGGIE
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Or perhaps in answer to people who have reported some American insurance cartel companies not allowing for a 1:1 ratio between skin barrier and barrier ring? This could be helpful for those folks.
Hi Hi,
Yup, I can see what you're saying working. Really, anything that adheres to both your skin and your barrier, that can be molded to fit tightly around your stoma, and doesn't dissolve instantly when it contacts output, can function as a 'barrier ring'. Bubblegum would probably work well too... but don't tell anyone I told you that... I have a reputation to uphold on here.
:O)
I tried that, but found that the Coloplast sheets are only sticky on one side after I got them. Different companies make their sheets and rings all a little different. I can't use the silicone rings or the Coloplast sheets, but the Coloplast Brava moldable rings work great.
Actually, it was when I had my big hernia before my hernia surgery. I was getting a lot of leaks. She had me cutting them from the 4x4 and sometimes would even have to put a slim ring on top as well.
I'm kind of sick of these sticky rings breaking apart right now and am thinking of using a Stomahesive 4x4 to cut some. Just came to my mind, but yeah, for people on a budget, this would help.
Yes, 4x4's are only sticky on the side by the skin. So your bag would be applied to the non-sticky part.
Absolutely! They work pretty well. At least back when I used them, they did.
4 x 4 sheets don't have adhesive on both sides like a ring does.
Also they absorb and hold output right next to your skin.
I used this once without paste and output went right under it right away.
If rings are too pricey I suggest switching to paste instead.
Alcohol based Adapt paste is the cheapest, but can sting burns and alcohol allergy.
A good no sting pectin based paste works well, but ensure the skin is very bone dry or it's a waste.
