Hollister Secure Start Services eNewsletter
Q4 2018
ASK THE EXPERT
Get the Right Fit
Learn how convex skin barriers can work for you
By Kimberly A. Smitka, BSN, RN, WOC Nurse Manager, Clinical Education
No two stomas are alike, so finding the right skin barrier is essential for a great fitting pouching system. Hollister has differently shaped options that take your particular stoma and the skin around it into consideration. The following are some common questions and answers about convex skin barriers.
I've heard the word "convexity"used a lot.
What does it mean? Ostomy skin barriers are either flat or convex. The words "convex" or "flat" simply describe the shape of the skin barrier. A convex skin barrier curves outward toward the peristomal skin to increase the depth of the skin barrier. This
outward curving is designed to come in contact with the skin directly around the stoma. A flat skin barrier has a level or even surface area that comes in contact with the skin.
How do I assess whether or not I need a convex skin barrier?
It is easiest to care for a stoma that sticks out above the level of the skin, has an opening right in the middle, and when the peristomal skin is flat and free of creases and folds. If this is the case, a flat skin barrier may work well for you. If your stoma is flat against your skin, or protrudes less than an inch, or is below the surface of the skin, you may need a convex skin barrier. A convex skin barrier may also be your best choice if you have a dip or indented areas around your stoma. The outward curving on the back of the convex skin barrier places pressure on the skin around your stoma to help the stoma protrude or help open or flatten skin folds.
My stoma is below skin level and I'm having trouble keeping my pouch on. Can a convex skin barrier help achieve a tighter seal?
In this case, a convex skin barrier may give you a more secure seal around the stoma and a better wear-time. The pressure from the outward curvature of the convex barrier on the surrounding skin can help protrude the stoma and prevent stool and urine from leaking under the skin barrier.
When is it appropriate to use a pre-sized convex skin barrier?
If your stoma is round and no longer changing size, you may want to choose a skin barrier that is already cut to the proper size. You'll usually see the term "pre-sized" used to describe this type of skin barrier option. If your stoma is oval, irregular in shape, or still changing size, understand that you may need to cut the skin barrier yourself to the correct shape and size. You'll see the term "cut-to-fit" used to describe this type of skin barrier option.
Convex skin barriers come in many different options. Assessing when convexity is required should be done in consultation with your ostomy care nurse.
Want to learn more or have a concern that wasn't mentioned here?
Hollister Secure Start services is here to help! Call us today at 1.888.808.7456.
For more information on using convexity, please visit our care tip guide on the topic.
