What should patients be educated on regarding showering with an ostomy?

Patients with an ostomy should be informed that they can shower with the pouch either on or off, which provides them with flexibility and encourages normal activities. However, it is important to protect the stoma from direct water pressure to prevent irritation or damage. High-pressure water can disturb the delicate tissue around the stoma and may lead to complications.

Choosing to leave the pouch on can help prevent any accidental spillage of waste, while taking it off allows the area to be cleaned thoroughly and can give patients a sense of comfort and normalcy in their hygiene routine. This guidance fosters independence and confidence in ostomy care.

Understanding this aspect of personal hygiene is essential for ostomy patients as it contributes to their overall quality of life, ensuring they can maintain good skin health and manage their ostomy effectively.