After having my GJ tube for over four weeks, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite items that have helped my recovery as well as navigate daily life. When I was preparing for surgery, I struggled to find resources online, so I hope sharing these items will assist others in their journey. This is not medical advice, just what has worked for me.
Dressing Changes:
This is the exact order I change my dressing with. Starting off I changed it at least three times a day! if I notice any leaking from my gauze, I go ahead and change it- this has helped so much with pain management.
1. Baby Wipes
I start with a baby wipe to clean my stoma site. I like these because they have simple ingredients and don’t have any fragrance that would irritate the area! click here to shop
2.H2Ocean
I spray this on my stoma and use a qtip to move the excess product. Sea salt promotes healing and the spray makes it very easy to use! click here to shop
3.Granulotion
This is a bit pricy but it is BEYOND worth it. You use such a small amount that everyone has said it has lasted them over a year! this helped so much with stoma pain by preventing as well as treating granulation tissue. I apply a very small amount with a q-tip as close to my stoma as possible- it does sting a little but the sensation leaves quickly. click here to shop
4.Aquaphor
I apply a generous Aquaphor as my first barrier with a q tip. click here to shop
5.Calmoseptine
This barrier cream was recommended to me by every tubie! I apply generous amount of calmoseptine with a q-tip which helps keep my skin from getting irritated. click here to shop
6.Split Gauze
While you should be supplied split gauze when sent home from the hospital, I was not. Your medical supply should provide split gauze but it is always good to have extra! click here to shop
7.Silicone Tape
I cut and use this silicone tape in strips on all four sides of my gauze. I wish I found this tape sooner! it doesn’t leave any residue and doesn’t irritate my skin at all. It moves with my skin instead of pulling it which is so much more comfortable on a healing stoma. click here to shop
Aftercare
Ice pack
Even though this ice pack isn’t meant for a stoma, it is the perfect size and shape! The cutout perfectly fits around the stoma. Ice has helped me so much with pain management as well as inflammation! click to shop
I’m absolutely in love with this XXL-sized heating pad—it’s become my ultimate favorite! It’s been incredibly effective for managing my pain. With that being said, using this directly on my stoma I feel was causing inflammation so I use it right below my stoma. I often use my heating pad and ice pack at the same time! click here to shop
This rechargeable electric pill crusher is amazing at finely crushing medication! Having a good pill crusher is important to ensure my port remains free from any clogs. I love that it is wireless and easy to travel with! click here to shop
These clips have been fantastic for securing my excess tubing! click here to shop
These port covers are adorable! I love how they keep my port clean and also catch any potential leaks. click here to shop
The Flying Squirrel pump hanger has been a game changer for me! It’s been essential for my mobility by freeing me from being tethered to an IV pole. click here to shop
Pajamas
Silk pajamas have been so comfortable and don’t catch my tube in my sleep! click here to shop
Med Cart
I have been using this cart to contain all of my supplies and it has helped me feel less like I’m surrounded by medical equipment. click here to shop
Wedge Pillow
Being flat after surgery was really uncomfortable! The most comfortable way to sleep at first was bu using this wedge pillow under my head/back and a regular pillow under my knees. In the last week I was able to transition to sleeping with a regular pillow under my head and knees. click here to shop
