Friday, August 31, 2012

Know Your Flange Size - A Guide For ConvaTec SUR-FIT Natura® Ostomy Skin Barriers

Whatever your ostomy type (colostomy, ileostomy, urostomy) your ostomy appliance might be ConvaTec's SUR-FIT Natura® line of ostomy appliances.  If your skin barrier or wafer is a cut-to-fit, (versus pre-cut), it's important that you are familiar with ConvaTec's chart to find the right flange size based on your stoma size.  
By getting the correct size, it will reduce the chances of a leak as well as better protect sensitive skin around your stoma. 
ConvaTec


Cut-To-Fit Skin Barrier Sizing
If your stoma size is no wider than:
Choose a flange size:
½”
1-1/4”
5/8”
1-1/4”
¾”
1-1/4”
7/8”
1-1/2”
1”
1-1/2”
1-1/8”
1-3/4”
1-1/4”
1-3/4”
1-3/8”
2-1/4”
1-1/2 to 1-3/4”
2-1/4”
1-7/8” to 2-1/2”
2-3/4”
2-5/8” to 3-1/2”
4”
 This and all other ostomy supplies are available at the Parthenon Company online or by calling 1-800-453-8898!

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Treatment For Male Stress Urinary Incontinence - A Guide

Male urinary incontinence can happen for several reasons such as a result from prostate cancer or other prostate problems.  Also, young boys are vulnerable to incontinence.  Both situations can be addressed with a Cunningham Clamp by Bard.   Constructed of a soft sponge rubber and adjustable to fit for comfort, the Cunningham Clamp is available in three sizes:

Juvenile 1-1/2"  #004052
Regular  2"        #004053
Large     3"        #004054

Shaped in a "V", the Cunningham Clamp simply applies external pressure to the urethra to prevent leakage of urine.  It is important to note that by applying this universal pressure to the urethra in the penis, blood flow in vessels can also be affected.  Monitor and remove if you notice anything abnormal or uncomfortable.  

Release the clamp every two to four hours to let urine escape from the bladder; retained urine can cause infections. Never place the clamp near open sores. Don't use your clamp with implanted penile prostheses or with indwelling catheters. Most importantly, contact your doctor immediately if you have swelling or pain.

The Cunningham Clamp and other incontinence supplies can be purchased at Parthenon online or by calling 1-800-453-8898.

How To Use Bard's Cunningham Clamp For Urinary Incontinence

Directions for easy adjustment to give proper fit and comfort

Bard Cunningham Clamp
Bard Cunningham Clamp

  1. A very light pressure on the urethral canal on the underside of the penis will prevent any leakage.
  2. The necessary pressure is achieved by the hump in the under part of the Cunningham Clamp.
  3. For proper fit and comfort the upper part of the clamp can be easily shaped by the fingers.
  4. Exact adjustment of pressure is achieved by the ratchet catch on the regular and large sizes.  To release the catch, merely press inward on both the spring wire loops. 
  5. Be sure the clamp is not set so tight that it will interfere with the blood circulation.
  6. Washing instructions:
  • Wash with a mild soap in warm water.
  • Rinse thoroughly in cool clean water.
  • Gently squeeze foam to discharge excess water.
  • Let unit air dry in cool environment away from excess heat or direct sunlight.
  • Do not use bleach detergent, hot water, washer/dryer or blowdryer.

How To Use Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant


Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant is intended to protect intact or damaged skin from the effects of moisture, friction, (rubbing) or shear (tearing).

Clean and dry the skin (Remedy Antimicrobial or Foaming Cleanser is suggested) before applying Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant.  Make sure that the skin is thoroughly dryand that all traces of moisturizers, lotions, lotion soaps or lanolin are removed from the application site.  Protect any sensitive areas, such as stomas and mucous membranes (e.g. the gums and inside of mouth).  Remove the applicator from the packaging. While holding the applicator upright (with the sponge tip to the top), firmly squeeze between the finger and thumb to crush the sealed inner tube. Turn the applicator upside down and wait for 5 seconds while the Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant soaks through the sponge tip.  Gently squeezing the tube will speed up this process, but be cautious of oversqueezing. As soon as the sponge is wet, slowly spread the Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant, gently and evenly, to form a thin transparent coating. Ensure that the desired area is completely covered and extends at least an inch (2.5cm) beyond the affected region.  If Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant is used at room temperature it will dry within a minute. Some people may feel a temporary warming sensation as the cyanoacrylate dries.  Do not overapply or rub the Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant in like a cream as the coverage will not be as effective and the warming sensation will be increased.  It is most effective when the coating is paper-thin.  Ensure that Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant has dried, completely, before covering with clothes, applying adhesive products such as tapes and dressings, or incontinence products.  Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant naturally wears off over 1-3 days depending on skin type and activity level. Inspect the film regularly (at least once a day) and if any cracking or flaking appears, apply another layer on top, until the area is completely covered once again. It is not necessary to remove the cracked and flaking layer, however, if it is applied too frequently excess build-up will lead to a thick inflexible film.  One Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant applicator will cover an area of approximately 4 in x 4 in (10 cm x 10 cm).  Do not use cleansers that leave a protective barrier, such as dimethicone, petrolatum, mineral oil, etc.

How To Remove Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant

 
Excess Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant can be removed before it dries by wiping with a clean tissue. Once it has dried, unwanted cyanoacrylate can be softened with petroleum jelly and removed. It will naturally wear off within 1-3 days as the skin renews itself.

If you experience of the warning signs or adverse reactions listed below after use of Marathon skin protectant, please seek medical attention.

Warnings
  • If irritation (redness, inflammation, heat, pain, and change in skin color) develops, immediately discontinue product use. If pain, and change in skin color) develops, immediately discontinue product use. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
  • If Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant is applied to a moist skin surface it will set very rapidly and a noticeable, but temporary warming sensation will be felt.
  • Do not use under drug delivery patches and avoid contact with mucous membranes such as the eyes and mouth.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
 Precautions
  • Avoid contact with materials such as latex gloves, instruments, clothing, bedding until cyanoacrylate has set (approximately 1 minute).
Adverse Reactions
  • If Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant enters the eye immediately flush with lukewarm water. Do not rub, or try to separate the eyelids. Seek medical attention.
  • If Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant accidentally contacts an open wound, flush with warm tap water. Removal is not necessary.
  • If the skin or other materials become stuck to the area, gently roll apart to separate. If unable to separate easily, seek medical attention.
  • If pain occurs, and persists, seek medical attention.

What NOT To Use Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant For

 Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant by Medline helps protect shin from moisture, friction (rubbin), and shear (tearing).  It is important to remember these contraindications provided by the manfacturer.

  1. Do NOT apply directly to deep, open, or bleeding wounds.
     
  2. Do NOT apply to chronic wounds (persistent or unhealing wounds).
     
  3. Do NOT apply to second or third degree burns.
     
  4. Do NOT apply to infected areas.

 If you would like to purchase Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant, please visit us online at www.parthenoninc.com or call 1-800-453-8898.   Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant at its lowest prices ever!
medline skin protectant
Marathon® Liquid Skin Protectant

Friday, August 24, 2012

The Nitty Gritty of InterDry® Ag Textile Sheets with Antimicrobial Silver

Directions
Measure and cut the appropriate length of textile allowing for 2 in of textile exposure to the air on each side of skin fold for moisture evaporation. Place one edge of the textile in the base of the skin fold. Gently smooth the rest of the cloth over the skin keeping the textile flat covering any wound dressings. Gently place the skin fold together assuring that 2 in of textile is exposed to air at each cut end. Separate the skin fold to assess the skin and placement of the textile daily or as indicated by normal practice. For use on an extremity, loosely wrap the textile around the area of skin to be protected. Secure with tape or other suitable device. Removal: InterDry Ag Textile may be left in place for up to 5 days, depending on soiling, odor, amount of moisture, and the general skin condition. When removing the textile from skin folds, gently separate the skin fold and lift away the textile. Store in a clean, dry environment in original packaging.

Indications
 A skin protectant indicated for management of skin folds and other skin-to-skin contact areas. Reduces microbial colonization in the fabric.

Product Details
10 x 144 in. Skin fold management. An antimicrobial textile for the control of moisture and friction in skin folds. A non-sterile skin protectant comprised of polyurethane coated polyester textile impregnated with an antimicrobial silver complex as the active component. The textile provides moisture transportation to keep skin dry while the antimicrobial in the textile reduces odor. The textile's low friction surface acts as a lubrication aid thereby reducing skin-to-skin friction. Provides a protective environment for the skin and an effective protection against microbial contamination in the fabric. The product reduces colonization of the following gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria as well as yeast: Staphylococcus aureus, staphylococcus epidermidis, pseudomonas aeruginosa, and candida albicans. InterDry Ag Textile contains 0.019% silver. A single patient use product that is custom cut from a multi-use package.

Warnings
InterDry Ag Textile is not a wound dressing and should not be placed directly onto an open wound. Should not be used on patients with a known sensitivity to silver. InterDry Ag Textile is a prescription device and should be used as directed by a licensed health care professional (USA only). May cause transient skin staining. Excessive absorption of silver into the body may cause the skin to obtain a blue-grey appearance (Argyria). The safe use of InterDry Ag Textile during pregnancy, lactation and on children has not been demonstrated. May not be used as a barrier to urine and feces. If such soiling occurs, the dressing must be changed immediately. Occlusive barriers used in conjunction with InterDry Ag Textile may reduce the efficacy of the product. Federal (USA) law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

Manufacturer
Coloplast Corp.
North Mankato, MN 56003 800-533-0464

What Are Sure Seal Rings and How Do They Work?

Sure Seal Rings To Keep You Active In Life and Secure Your Appliance!

Sure Seal Rings are thin circle and square shaped discs used to reinforce the seal of the skin barrier to the skin around the stoma. 

Benefits  of Sure Seal Rings
  • Completely Waterproof
  • Keeps Leaks Trapped
  • See through Material Matches any Skin Tone
  • Skin-Friendly and Hypo-Allergenic Barrier
Medium Size Sure SealTM Rings
Item number RS02

Standard Size Sure SealTM Rings
Item number RS01
Find The Your Size of Sure Seal Ring

Sure SealTM  Rings Sizing Guide

Standard Size Sure SealTM Rings Medium Size Sure SealTM Rings
Flanges Sizes: 32mm (1 1/4") - 50mm (2") Flanges Sizes: 45mm (1 3/4") Floating Flange & 51mm (2") - 72mm (2 3/4")


How Do I Apply My Sure Seal Rings?
















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In case Sure Seal Rings are not what you want you can consider Coloplast's Brava Elastic Barrier Strips , both are designed to strengthen the seal between the skin barrier and the peristomal skin.  Parthenon provides a complete selection of ostomy accessories and ileostomy supplies at discount prices.   

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Par-SORB™ Absorbent Packets - The Must Have Ostomy Absorbent For Ileostomies

ParSORB Gel Packets Provide Peace of Mind In A Packet!

Par-SORB absorbent packets are designed specifically to absorb ileostomy pouch contents.  The ParSORB granules are non-toxic and come in a dissolvable film packet.  You simply drop the intact packet into the ostomy pouch each time it is emptied or cleansed.  

As the pouch begins to fill, the packet dissolves and ParSORB absorbent granules form a semi-solid gel that keeps pouch contents away from teh stoma.  The gel also helps eliminate pouch noise and makes pouch contents easy to empty.  The result is an increase in pouch wearer confidence as well as convenience.



Par-SORB Absorbent Gel Packets - Turns Liquid........Into Gel

Ostomy Bag Covers - To Conceal or Not To Conceal

It's a product that some really love while others do not.  Colostomy bags, and ileostomy and urostomy too, they all can be fitted with a cover for comfort against the skin.
The ostomy pouch cover has evolved over the years from the piece of fabric stitched together to accommodate most any ostomy bag to a customized cover made of a few materials and fitted to make the pouch have a snug fit.  Companies making pouch covers currently include OPAC, C&S Ostomy Pouch Covers and Nu-Hope Labs.  C&S is the most progressive of the bunch making a pouch cover to fit almost any pouch you can imagine. 
C&S Pouch Cover - "Quick Dry"


Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Brava Elastic Barrier Strips

Coloplast Barrier Strip

Brava™ Elastic Barrier Strips

Coloplast's new Brava Elastic Barrier Strips are the newest addition to the line of products designed to control stomal fluid leakage and increase ostomy appliance wear time.  The crescent shaped strips will cover the border of your skin barrier to ensure that its edges do not roll up.  This provides a longer appliance wear time. 

Coloplast's Brava Elastic Tape is used to hold the ostomy skin barrier or base plate in place for extra security and to extend ostomy appliance wear time. Each strip is five and one half inches (5-1/2") long.  Skin-friendly strips provide extra security and support longer wear-time of an ostomy appliance. Elastic follows the contours of your body. Ensures the position of your barrier and minimizes roll-up. Skin-friendly and Latex-Free. 

This and other Brava ostomy accessories can be purchased at The Parthenon Company.

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

How Does InterDry Work?

InterDry is highly effective against the itching, odor and burning associated with Intertrigo because it addresses the root cause of the problem. The fabric wicks away moisture, keeping the skin dry.

The fabric of InterDry is a soft polyester which reduces friction in the skin fold.
The antimicrobial silver in the fabric fights the itching and odor from bacteria, fungus and yeast.

InterDry is the solution for skin-on-skin irritation where creams and powders have failed.
Doctor recommended. Demonstrated effective.

  • Effectively manages moisutre, odor and inflammation in skin-to-skin contact areas
  • Helps manage erythema, maceration, denudement, pain, itching, burning, and satellite lesions associated with skin folds
  • Wicks and translocates moisture
  • Silver within the textile provides effective antimicrobial action for up to 5 days
 InterDry and other wound and bariatric products are available at the Parthenon Company.

What Causes Skin On Skin Rashes That InterDry Treats?

What causes skin-on-skin rashes

A common cause of skin-on-skin rashes is a condition called Intertrigo1 (pronounced inter-try-go). It is caused when moisture is trapped in skin folds and is worsened by heat, and skin-on-skin friction. The affected area typically harbors bacteria, fungus and yeast. The symptoms typically include odor, itching and burning.

Commonly affected areas include under the breasts, skin folds on the belly or thighs, the armpits and groin. However, it can happen anywhere there is moisture against the skin with a lack of air circulation.

InterDry is highly effective at eliminating the symptoms of Intertrigo, such as itching, odor and burning because it addresses the root cause of the problem.
The patented fabric of InterDry wicks away the moisture and reduces friction. And the antimicrobial silver in the fabric fights the itch and odor from bacteria, fungus and yeast.

InterDry and other skin care products are available at the Parthenon Company.

What Is InterDry Ag Used For?

InterDry® Ag Textile Sheets with Antimicrobial Silver Complex 

 
InterDry is used to eliminate skin on skin irritation and inflammation.  People have skin folds or places on their body where skin touches skin.  These places of contact are ideal for a type of skin rash, called Intertigo*, that thrives in hot and sweaty places on where skin rubs skin.  Typical places that are vulnerable to this rash include: stomach folds, under the breasts, groin and armpit area.  In addition to this rash, odor, itching and burning can also manifest coming from bacteria, yeast and fungus.

InterDry is a moisture wicking fabric containing antimicrobial silver.  The fabric wicks away moisture so your skin stays dry and helps eliminate skin-on-skin friction. And the antimicrobial silver in the fabric fights itching and odor-causing bacteria so you can be active, comfortable and confident all day.
No more skin-on-skin irritation, itchiness or odor!

No more skin-on-skin irritation, itchiness or odor!

InterDry™ Ag Textile with Antimicrobial Silver Complex 
  • Effectively manages moisutre, odor and inflammation in skin-to-skin contact areas
  • Helps manage erythema, maceration, denudement, pain, itching, burning, and satellite lesions associated with skin folds
  • Wicks and translocates moisture
  • Silver within the textile provides effective antimicrobial action for up to 5 days

* Intertrigo, (ITD) is an inflammatory dermatosis of opposing skin surfaces caused by moisture Journal of Wound Ostomy Continence Nursing. 2011;38(4):359-370.