May/June 2002
Page 7

Tips For the Urostomate

• Check the pH of your urine about once a week to be sure the urine is acidic, with a pH of less than 6.0.
• Always wash your hands before working with your appliance or stoma, to avoid introducing bacteria into the stoma.
• Reusable or disposable appliances that are not cleaned adequately or are worn for long periods of time can cause urinary tract infections from bacterial growth in the pouch and urine.
• Signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection include fever, chills, bloody urine, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pain in the back and kidney area. If you experience these symptoms, see your physician!

From http://www.ostomy.evansville.net/ via Ostomy Outlook, Stillwater, OK., via Inside Out On-line May/June 2002.