Strong seals are the foundation of any reliable ostomy system. One simple but effective accessory that helps achieve this is the ostomy barrier ring. They’re soft rings that sit neatly between the skin and the wafer. They fill the small gaps and creases to prevent leaks and protect sensitive skin.
The ostomy barrier ring is made from skin-friendly materials that conform to your body’s shape. It works by creating a snug yet flexible seal around the stoma. Your pouching system can be secure through daily activity and you can have peace of mind.
How to Use a Barrier Ring
How to use a barrier ring for ostomy care? After cleaning and drying the skin around your stoma, remove the ring from its package and warm it slightly between your hands.
You can stretch or flatten it depending on your stoma’s shape. It can be moved around and is malleable in the ways you need it to be.
Place it gently around the base of the stoma and make sure there are no gaps. Then apply the wafer or baseplate directly over it. Press down firmly for a smooth seal. There should be less irritation and better adhesion from your pouching system.
For extra guidance, SNS-Medical recommends pairing flexible and quality barrier rings with their skin barrier wafers or powders. Learning how to use a barrier ring for ostomy confidently may take a few tries and a bit of adjustment but it soon becomes part of your normal routine.
Tips and Alternatives
You might also want to learn more about how to use ostomy barrier strips properly if you have trouble with fit. These are long and flexible pieces that can be placed around the wafer’s edge for additional security. Some users prefer rings to strips. Patients may use both together depending on their skin type and activities they need to be ready for.
Avoid stretching the skin too tightly and to replace the ring each time you change your pouch. The skin needs to be dry and stoma powder can absorb the moisture and ensure the right surface to start with.
Check your ring size or speak to a stoma nurse for advice on how to apply ostomy rings properly to make sure that you are getting things right. Gently pressing the wafer into place after positioning the ring helps ensure proper adhesion and comfort.
Learning how to apply a barrier ring to stoma correctly will help protect your skin. It can also boost your confidence.
Barrier rings are moldable seals that fill any contours and gaps between your stoma and skin barrier to prevent leaks and irritation.
Warm it in your hands and then shape it to fit your stoma. Only ever apply it to clean and dry skin. Press your wafer on top for a secure seal.
Position the ring evenly around the stoma base without gaps. Apply the wafer over it and press gently to secure.
Rings create a circular seal around the stoma. Strips are longer pieces that reinforce the outer edge of your wafer or patch for extra protection.
