Fecal pouch emptying

When should I empty the pouch?

To prevent leaking, empty it when it is 1/3 full of stool or gas. Do not allow overfilling.

How do I empty the pouch?

1. The person can sit on the toilet or have a container or diaper nearby to empty stool into. Or if using a pouch with a spout, you can use a syringe to draw the stool out of the pouch.
2. Hold the tail of pouch up and push stool away from the clip.
3. Remove the clip and save.
4. Empty the contents of the pouch into the toilet or container.
5. Using toilet paper, clean remaining stool from the edges of the pouch.
6. Apply pouch deodorant as needed.
7. Apply the clip.

Who should I call for help?

Call the wound ostomy continence nurse (WOCN) if:

• skin is irritated (red, itchy)
• bumps appear around the stoma
• there is repeated leakage around the pouch or skin barrier
• skin around the stoma is bulging
• stoma appears to be getting longer

Call the doctor if:

• child has cramps combined with little or no stool output
• stoma bleeds more than expected
• stoma turns dark or bluish

Questions?

This is not specific to your child, but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call your clinic.

Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota
Last reviewed by WOCN 8/2015

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