Esther, Quint’s mother
Quint, 12, was born with spina bifida and uses Peristeen®
"Think ahead and consider what kind of facilities are available where you are going. Quint needs more time in the bathroom so we prefer to have a private bathroom available."*
The idea of being away from home – even for short trips – can be quite intimidating when your child is using Peristeen® Plus Transanal Irrigation (TAI) system. Here are some practical tips to help you and your family enjoy time away from home without worrying too much about bowel issues.
Before going away
Leaving your home requires that you make some extra preparations for both your journey and stay. If it helps you feel more secure, consider using Peristeen Plus before you travel. Making sure your child’s bowels are empty is a good way to reduce the risk of an accident while traveling.
- If you’re going away for a long time, make sure you have contact information for your Peristeen Plus supplier. Call Coloplast® Care at 1-866-293-6349 if you need any assistance.
- If you're traveling by air, bring your Peristeen Plus supplies in your carry-on luggage, just in case your luggage is lost or the flight is delayed.
- Pack a smart kit: including everything you might need in case of unexpected bowel accidents.
- Peristeen Plus is a medical device so you should not encounter problems going through security. Simply make sure the water bag is empty. Consider letting the security agent know.
- Bring your child's health insurance card.
- If your child is traveling without you, remember to inform relevant parties about their condition so they are prepared.
Make a packing list
Most children like routines. Make a packing list so you remember your child's Peristeen Plus system, enough catheters, Peristeen Plus sticker chart with stickers, motivational treats and any other items you might need while away. Download a packing list to ensure you remember all must-haves.
Locate the nearest restroom
Download our complimentary WheelMate™ app from Google Play or the App Store. It makes it easier to find wheelchair accessible restrooms when you’re away. Whether you're local or traveling, WheelMate can help you and your child plan your day.
While you're away
Here are some things to consider to make sure you and your child can enjoy a care-free vacation without unwanted complications. Here are some tips that might help:
Keep routines and schedules
Stick to your child’s normal routine, including diet and hydration, if possible.
Tap water that is safe to drink is also safe for irrigation. If in doubt, use bottled water at room temperature or cooled boiled water. Before starting irrigation, ensure the water temperature indicator is green, indicating the temperature is within a suitable range for irrigation.
It’s not uncommon for people to experience more irregular bowel movements when traveling. This may also be the case for your child, and it’s probably not a cause for concern. To prevent accidents during longer trips, consider bringing diapers or pads.
Bring important information
Carry a copy of your child’s prescription details and take your doctor’s contact information with you in case you have questions while away. Being aware of local medical services could also be useful.
Need support?
Should any product issues arise while you are away, call Coloplast Care at 1-866-293-6349 or email us at casupport@coloplast.com. We can support you over the phone or put you in touch with someone locally who can provide assistance.
*Coloplast has compensated this caregiver to share their product experience. Each person's situation is unique so your experience may not be the same. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether the product is right for you.
Information from Coloplast Care is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice and should not be interpreted to contain treatment recommendations. You should rely on the healthcare professional who knows your individual history for personal medical advice and diagnosis.
