font size
Some medical conditions can cause a person to frequently lose bowel or bladder control. To address this problem, several externally worn devices can be used to protect the skin from constant leakage of liquid stool or urine. These appliances are usually referred to as external incontinence devices.
Alternative Names
Condom catheter; Incontinence devices; Fecal collection devices
Information
Although there are several different products available, the general features of these products are described below.
FECAL INCONTINENCE DEVICES
Several devices are available for managing chronic
With proper application, a fecal incontinence device may remain in place for 24 hours. It is important to remove the pouch if any stool leakage has occurred. Liquid stool is very caustic to the skin and may lead to skin irritation and breakdown.
If leakage has occurred, always cleanse the skin and apply a new pouch.
The device should be applied to clean, dry skin:
- A protective skin barrier may be prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is applied to the skin prior to attaching the device. You can also use a skin barrier paste to fill in the skin folds of the buttocks to prevent liquid stool from leaking through this area.
- Spread the buttocks apart, exposing the anus. It may be helpful to have one person support the buttocks while another applies the wafer and pouch. The wafer should conform to the skin with no gaps or creases where liquid stool can seep through.
- It may be necessary to trim the hair around the anus to help the wafer adhere better to the skin.
An enterostomal therapy nurse or skin care nurse can provide you with a list of products that are available in your area. (See also
URINARY INCONTINENCE DEVICES
Urine collection devices are primarily used by men. Women are generally treated with medication and disposable garments like Depends.
