The role of accessory product in patients with a stoma.

Intact skin provides a barrier between the body and its environment, and it follows that damage to the peristomal skin can be a significant problem for the person with a stoma. As many as one-third of colostomy patients and two-thirds of ileostomy and urostomy patients will be affected. Usage and opinions about accessory products in stoma care vary enormously and patients can identify accessory products as being necessary for their physical and psychological wellbeing.