When changing an ostomy pouch, which step follows cleansing the skin?

The correct next step after cleansing the skin when changing an ostomy pouch is to apply the skin barrier. This step is crucial because the skin barrier serves to protect the skin around the stoma from irritation and damage caused by output from the stoma or adhesive products. Applying the skin barrier directly after cleaning ensures that the area is well-protected before placing the new ostomy pouch.

Additionally, applying the skin barrier first helps create a secure seal for the pouch, reducing the risk of leaks and skin complications, which can arise if the barrier is not in place. This order of operations emphasizes the importance of thorough care and protection of the stoma site to promote healing and comfort for the patient.

Other steps involved, such as inspecting the stoma or measuring the pouch size, also play important roles in the overall process but are performed at different points in the procedure to ensure optimal pouch fit and stoma health.