The urinary ostomy patient is more likely to be susceptible to infection than the other types of ostomies. URINE is normally sterile. IT IS IMPORTANT TO KEEP THE URINARY POUCH VERY CLEAN. On days it is not changed, it should be rinsed with a solution of 1/3 parts white vinegar to 2/3 parts tap water. This can be allowed to run over the stoma and will also prevent crystals. The vinegar produces an acid environment in your pouch. Bacteria cannot multiply as readily in an acid condition.
YOUR NIGHT DRAINAGE POUCH SHOULD BE CLEANSED DAILY. White vinegar and water can be used for this too. Perhaps some of you use a special ostomy disinfectant or diluted Lysol solution. When the drainage bag has sediment that cannot be removed by cleaning it, it should be discarded. Saving a few pennies by using it too long can cost more in the long run if you have to treat infection.
Drinking plenty of liquids is important for all osto mates, but especially for the urostomate. Many urologists also prescribe Vitamin C to help keep urine acid and less susceptible to infection. (Check with your doctor about this first as some persons have reasons that would be exceptions to this.) Cranberry juice helps to keep urine acid. Many people laugh at this theory but it is helpful to a lot of ostomates. You would have to drink a number of glasses to equal what is in Vitamin C tablets. Your doctor might prefer that you take the tablets.
What are the signs of urinary infection? Fever, pain in the region of the kidney, very strong odor to urine, excessive mucous. (All urinary ostomates produce mucous. You learn what is normal for you. When it is excessive, you will be aware of a difference.) Urinary pouches should be changed regularly. People wear them for a day to a week. It is not advocated that you keep any pouch on for more than seven days. For one thing, the skin under it should be inspected at least that often.
