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These tips from the me+ team may help you return to the workplace with more confidence and less anxiety.
Be prepared
Pack a bag with the items you need for a full change of pouching system and a change of clothes. You may not need your “emergency kit” at all, but it can offer peace of mind knowing that it is at the ready.
Pack your water bottle and stay hydrated
Drinking water is one of the simplest ways to improve your health and well-being.
Learn more about hydration with a stoma.
Initially, you may be self-conscious about emptying your pouch in public due to odour or sound
Create a buffer with a layer of toilet paper in the toilet bowl to avoid splashing when emptying your pouch. Some people also include bathroom deodorising products in their stoma supply kits.
Dress comfortably
Do not worry that others will notice the pouching system through your clothes. Having a stoma may seem very noticeable to you, but in reality it is rarely noticed by others. Support belts keep your stoma pouch supported & flat against your stomach allowing you to wear tailored clothing.
Consider starting back to work on a Thursday
Allowing you to ease back in with a short work week. You will be able to rest over the weekend before taking on a full week of work.
Think about what facilities are available in your work toilets and plan accordingly
If no paper towels are available, have premoistened paper towels in zip lock plastic bags or moisturiser-free wipes. Try to think of how to accomplish a pouch change in that setting if needed.
Take breaks
It is easy to get wrapped up in the task at hand, but allow yourself time to empty your pouch.
Don’t try out new products or foods right before going back to work
Save testing new products or diet changes for the comfort of home.
Most likely, your co-workers will not realise you have a stoma unless you tell them
It is a personal choice whether or not to tell your employer about your stoma. Although it may help to tell your manager or trusted co-worker(s) if you require frequent breaks or accomodations.
You have legal rights under the UK Disability rights and the Equality Act 2010
The GOV.UK website can be a helpful resource if you encounter workplace discrimination.
Consult your physician or healthcare professional before returning to work. If you have other questions about returning to work following stoma surgery, contact the me+™ Specialist Advisors 0800 467 866 UK / 1800 721 721 ROI - (Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm GMT)
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