Statement of Clinical Problem:

Patients with dexterity problems experienced challenges with the preparation and application process of traditional cut-to-fit wafers. Patients also had peristomal skin breakdown due to a poor fit because of their difficulty in cutting the wafers.

Description of Past Management:

Five patients were placed in cut-to-fit two-piece appliances.  Two patients had Multiple Sclerosis. Two patients had arthritis. The fifth patient had very large fingers and hands which made cutting a wafer with scissors very challenging and frustrating.  All the patients needed to involve family members and friends to assist with cutting wafers for proper fit.

Current Clinical Approach:

All patients were transitioned from traditional cut-to-fit wafers to a flat moldable wafer for ease of application and effective wear-time.

Patient Outcomes:

Patients' independence improved using the flat moldable wafer. All experienced increased comfort, simplicity of use and a better over-all satisfaction with application of the flat moldable skin barrier. Other outcomes included decreased peristomal skin breakdown. The number of outpatient ostomy visits decreased for all five patients.

Conclusion:

These five patients with dexterity issues seen in our outpatient clinic experienced increased satisfaction and newfound independence with the use of a flat moldable appliance. Additionally, transitioning patients from a traditional cut-to-fit wafer into a flat moldable wafer decreased the number of outpatient follow-up visits and cost for both the patient and the clinic with fewer visits and less product utilization. 

* SUR-FIT Natura® Moldable Stomahesive® or Durahesive® Skin Barrier

© 2007 E.R. Squibb & Sons, L.L.C.                                                 US-07-2060

SUR-FIT, Natura, Stomahesive and Durahesive are registered trademarks of E.R. Squibb & Sons, L.L.C.