Whether or not a person irrigates is a personal choice, depending on how regular bowel movements were before surgery. Irrigation is not painful but needs to be done on a regular schedule to train the bowel with a new habit. Regardless of what type of colostomy a person has, once strength is regained, they may return to a normal day's activities. Having a colostomy will not handicap anyone in any way as long as they manage the colostomy instead of letting it manage them. WOCN Powder is used to treat irritated skin or a fungal infection.
Nystatin powder is used only when the itchy rash is present and then discontinued.
Dust the skin with the powder, rub in well and brush off any excess. The wafer can be applied directly over the powder when a small amount is used or you can seal it in by patting a sealant over the powder and allowing it to dry. The wafer is then applied. Powder is not needed routinely, as the new barriers are designed to adhere to the skin. If changing your appliance seems to take forever, with a little practice it will soon become a small part of your normal week.