Assessing the use of Stomal Sponge's to reduce the frequency of neonatal stoma-bag leakage
Infants with a bowel stoma experience frequent leakage under the adhesive baseplate of their stoma bag, leading to contact irritant dermatitis and unplanned bag changes. The Stomal Sponge is a non-sterile, lint-free polyvinyl-alcohol insert that absorbs liquid stool and holds it in the bottom of the bag. For up to fourteen days, nurses will routinely insert a new Stomal Sponge into the infant's stoma bag and record any leaks, bag-wear time, and skin assessments. Parents will complete two short questionnaires about their experience. The results will indicate whether this simple device can keep stool away from the adhesive, lower leakage frequency, and improve the comfort and confidence of families.
What you need to know
Who can take part?
The demographic for this research is neonates admitted to the Mater Mothers’ Hospital NCCU with a newly formed faecal outputting jejuno- or ileostomy. In the context of inclusion:
- The neonate’s stoma output must be contained in a stoma bag and have an output volume of greater than 20 mL/kg/day to be classified as ‘high output’
- A caregiver must be present to provide written informed consent for the child.
What is involved for me?
- A research nurse will speak with you about the study and obtain your written informed consent before any procedures begin.
- Your baby’s stoma bag will be changed to allow the nurse to assess the skin around the stoma.
- The Stomal Sponge will begin to be used when the next routine bag change is required. It will be placed in the bottom of the bag and checked for fit and comfort.
- The Stomal Sponge will be replaced each time the bag is emptied or if it is being changed, whichever comes first.
- Nursing staff will document any leakage, bag-wear time, and the condition of the skin during routine care.
- You will be asked to complete two short surveys (approximately five minutes each): one at enrolment and one on day fourteen or discharge, whichever occurs first.
- Participation is voluntary, and you may withdraw your baby from the study at any time. This will not affect the care they receive.
