Ostomy paste

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Ostomy Paste is a non-sterile, hydrocolloid-based filler used in peristomal skin care to fill skin folds, scars, and creases, creating a flat surface for the ostomy flange to adhere to . Unlike adhesives, its primary purpose is to act as a “spackle,” preventing caustic stoma effluent from leaking under the barrier, which can cause painful peristomal skin breakdown, maceration, and infection .
For the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurse (WOCN), ostomy paste is a critical tool in the ostomy fitting algorithm. When a patient presents with an irregular abdomen due to hernia, surgical scars, or weight loss, paste is the intervention of choice to fill the “valleys” so a standard flat or convex wafer can sit flush against the skin .
For the patient, ostomy paste is the difference between a secure, long-lasting seal and a skin-devastating leak. It is available in standard alcohol-based formulas or alcohol-free (low sting) options for those with sensitive or already denuded skin . Applied directly to the skin or the back of the barrier, it helps extend appliance wear time, reduce the frequency of painful changes, and gives the patient the confidence to live actively without fear of odor or leakage.
Description

Ostomy Paste

PRIMARY CLINICAL & DIAGNOSTIC USES

1. Filling of Irregular Skin Contours Around the Stoma
  • Primary Use: Provides a non-sterile, hydrocolloid-based paste applied to peristomal skin to fill in uneven skin surfaces, folds, creases, and cavities, creating a flat, smooth surface for the ostomy flange or baseplate to adhere to .
  • How it helps: For the wound, ostomy, and continence nurse (WOC nurse) and the patient living with an ostomy, the paste acts as a “spackle” or gap filler, smoothing out dips and scars that would otherwise create channels for leakage. For the patient, proper use of ostomy paste prevents output from seeping under the adhesive barrier, reducing the risk of painful peristomal skin irritation, breakdown, and infection.
2. Creation of a Tight Seal to Prevent Leakage
  • Primary Use: The paste forms a secure seal between the ostomy appliance (barrier/wafer) and the skin, effectively protecting against stoma output (effluent) and preventing maceration of the peristomal skin .
  • How it helps: For the clinician, ostomy paste provides a critical defense mechanism against fecal or urinary effluent which is caustic to the skin. For the patient, a reliable seal prevents the humiliation, discomfort, and skin damage associated with appliance leaks, allowing for extended wear time and improved quality of life.
3. Protection of Peristomal Skin from Effluent
  • Primary Use: As a hydrocolloid-based skin barrier, it isolates the peristomal skin from corrosive stoma output, preventing chemical irritation, denudation, and infectious complications .
  • How it helps: For the healthcare provider managing a patient with a new ostomy or sensitive skin, the paste acts as a sacrificial layer, protecting the epidermis from the digestive enzymes and bacteria present in stoma output. For the patient, this protection prevents the painful cycle of leakage, itching, and skin breakdown that can lead to hospital readmission.
4. Extension of Appliance Wear Time
  • Primary Use: By preventing edge lifting and leakage, the paste helps to increase the wear time of the ostomy appliance, reducing the frequency of changes .
  • How it helps: For the ostomy nurse and the patient, maximizing wear time is both a clinical goal and an economic necessity. The less frequently a patient has to change their appliance, the lower the risk of peristomal skin injury from adhesive removal, and the more cost-effective the supplies become. For the patient, this translates to fewer disruptions to daily life.

SECONDARY & SUPPORTIVE USES

1. Filling of Skin Folds and Creases: Used to plump up or fill in skin folds and creases on convex or flat surfaces to ensure the flange adheres flush to the skin.
2. Management of Skin Dips and Scars: Applied to fill in dips caused by old surgical scars or hernia bulges to create a smooth application surface .
3. Repair of Minor Leaks: Used as a spot filler to patch small leak points noticed immediately after pouch application.
4. Softening and Smoothing Irregularities: The paste dries to a soft, flexible consistency that conforms to body movement without cracking.
5. Adhesion for Prolonged Wear: Recommended for use during physical activity or swimming to provide extra security against seal failure from perspiration or water exposure.
6. Application to Barrier or Directly to Skin: Formulated to adhere effectively whether applied directly to the skin or pre-applied to the adhesive barrier .
7. Use with Convex Systems: Can be used in conjunction with convex flanges to manage more challenging abdominal contours.
8. Protection During Chemotherapy/Radiation: Used to protect peristomal skin from the irritating effects of certain medications or treatments on the surrounding skin.
9. Pediatric Ostomy Care: Used in pediatric patients to ensure a secure seal that accommodates the distention of the abdomen during growth or feeding.
10. Older Adult Skin Protection: Used for geriatric patients with fragile, thin, or “crepey” skin where a strong adhesive alone might cause mechanical trauma.
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. BASIC IDENTIFICATION ATTRIBUTES

  • Device Type: A non-sterile, single-use, hydrocolloid-based paste designed for application to peristomal skin to fill irregularities, protect the skin, and secure the seal of a stoma appliance .
  • Designation: Ostomy Paste, Stomahesive Paste, Peristomal Dressing, Skin Barrier Paste, Colostomy Paste .
  • Key Components:
    • Active Base: Hydrocolloid (gel-forming polymers such as pectin, gelatin, or carboxymethylcellulose) .
    • Solvent: Often contains alcohol (which may cause stinging) or alcohol-free formulations (e.g., Ally® Paste) .
    • Container: Squeeze tube.
    • Application Aid: Rolling key/tube key for easy extrusion and complete emptying of contents (included with many brands) .

2. TECHNICAL & PERFORMANCE PROPERTIES

  • Material: Hydrocolloid-based substance; non-sterile .
  • Alcohol Content: Available in standard (alcohol-based) and low-alcohol or alcohol-free formulas to reduce stinging on denuded skin .
  • Latex-Free: Formulated without natural rubber latex .
  • Consistency: Thick, paste-like substance that dries to a flexible, remains shapeable, and conforms to body contours .
  • Finish: Dries to create a smooth, flat surface ready for flange adhesion.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with standard intestinal ostomy plates (flanges/barriers) across all major manufacturers (e.g., Coloplast, Convatec, Hollister) .

3. PHYSICAL & OPERATIONAL PROPERTIES

  • Construction: Smooth, non-gritty paste; designed to be extruded from a tube.
  • Packaging: Sealed tube with a screw cap.
  • Tube Rolling Key: Provided with many brands to assist patients with limited hand strength in dispensing the product and rolling up the tube to eliminate waste .
  • Shelf Life: Check expiration date printed on tube crimp.
  • Portability: Tubes are small (e.g., 2 oz / 60 g) and portable for travel.

4. SAFETY & COMPLIANCE ATTRIBUTES

  • Regulatory Status: Class I medical device (non-sterile) .
  • Sterility: Non-sterile; for external use only on intact skin or peri-stomal skin .
  • CE Marking: Meets EU standards for health, safety, and environmental protection .
  • Latex-Free: Standard in modern ostomy products .
  • Single-Patient Use: Intended for use by one patient on a single appliance; do not reuse the tube for another patient .

5. STORAGE & HANDLING ATTRIBUTES

  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place.
  • Temperature: Keep below 30°C (86°F) .
  • Do Not Freeze: Freezing degrades the hydrocolloid properties .
  • Inspection: Do not use if the tube is punctured, damaged, or if the paste appears dried out or separated.

6. LABORATORY & CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

  • Primary Application: Filling skin irregularities, protecting peristomal skin, and securing the seal of ostomy pouches (colostomy, ileostomy, urostomy) to prevent leakage .
  • Clinical Role: Essential accessory for ostomy care in surgical wards, home healthcare, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, and wound/ostomy/continence (WOC) nursing.
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

  • Open Skin: Avoid applying to open, denuded, or heavily bleeding skin, as alcohol content may cause intense stinging. Use alcohol-free formulations or skin barrier powder first .
  • Do Not Dilute: Use the paste directly as it comes from the tube; do not add water or other solvents.
  • Do Not Heat: Do not microwave or heat the tube to make it flow faster, as this can destroy the hydrocolloid properties and cause burns.
  • Allergy Screening: If the patient has a known allergy to adhesives or tape, verify the paste's ingredients before use.
  • Not a Glue: It is a filler, not an adhesive glue. It should be used in conjunction with a flat or convex skin barrier, not as a substitute for the barrier .
  • Skin Preparation: The peristomal skin should be clean and dry before application. Avoid using creams or lotions where the paste will contact the skin.
  • Wear Time: Using too much paste can degrade the wear time of the flange if the skin is too wet.

2. FIRST AID MEASURES

  • Skin Irritation: If irritation occurs, discontinue use of the paste. Clean the area with warm water and dry thoroughly. Assess if a fungal infection has developed under the paste (common in moist environments).
  • Allergic Contact Dermatitis: If rash, redness, or itching develops, the patient may be reacting to the adhesive or hydrocolloid. Stop use and consult a WOC nurse.
  • Tube Breakage: If the tube splits, transfer the remaining paste to a clean, dry container or discard it; do not use paste that has been exposed to air for long periods.
  • Eye Contact: If paste accidentally gets in the eyes, flush with copious amounts of water and seek medical attention.

3. FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES

  • Flammability: Hydrocolloid-based pastes are typically water-based and not highly flammable. The plastic tube is combustible.
  • Extinguishing Media: Use water, foam, dry chemical, or CO2 for fires involving the plastic tube.