This article explains how your caregiver can support you when you use TAI. Share this information with them so they know how best to help you!
Having conversations about TAI
When talking about transanal irrigation (TAI) or your bowel management routine, how much you share is always up to you. If a family member or relative would like to support you emotionally, you don't have to share the ins and outs of TAI unless you want to. No matter how much you share, they can help support you and motivate you to keep going.
Support for accidents when you are out
You may have designated friends or family members who you can call if you experience bowel issues when you are out and about. They may be able to help you with any additional supplies or just be there for support while you manage the situation.
Never underestimate the importance of having a supportive network you can turn to when necessary. To establish your own network, be open and honest about your bowel. Explain why you would like them to be an emergency contact and what this would mean for them. They will be happy to support you.
Supporting irrigation
Sometimes it is necessary to have a caregiver support your irrigations. If this is the case, it is important that your caregiver has been trained to use Peristeen® Plus Transanal Irrigation System by a healthcare provider before they start helping you. It can also be a good idea to review our step-by-step guide or watch our video together before starting. This way, you can align on what to do and how to best help during each step. You should always read the "Instructions for Use" (provided with your product) before use.
You may also want to use the irrigation checklist to make sure you have everything ready before you begin your irrigation.
Inserting and removing the Peristeen Plus rectal catheter with caregiver help
If your caregiver is going to help with your irrigation, it’s important that they follow the steps correctly and have been trained by a healthcare provider. First, you or your caregiver will need to activate the balloon catheter's lubricant with water. To do this, you can attach the catheter in its packaging to a wall using the adhesive dots or place it in its packaging in a cup or glass. Next, carefully pump until water fills the catheter packaging to activate the catheter coating. See "Instructions for Use" booklet provided with your product for full details.
The catheter should be inserted into the rectum without using force. If you or your caregiver have trouble inserting the catheter, call your Coloplast Care Advisor or reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.
Once you have pumped the recommended amount of water, you will need to remove the catheter. Deflate the balloon catheter first. The catheter will often slide out by itself, but if it doesn't, you or your caregiver can gently remove it from the rectum. The colon should start to empty itself, but if nothing happens after the catheter is removed, you can try coughing or moving your torso. Sometimes gentle pressure on the upper abdomen can also get the emptying process going. Emptying time varies for individuals, but commonly takes about 30 minutes.
You may or may not want complete privacy at this point, so agree with your caregiver how much support they should give. Remember that you should always feel free to communicate your needs.
Cleaning your Peristeen Plus Transanal Irrigation System
Whether you manage the irrigation process yourself or with help, you may need support cleaning your Peristeen Plus Transanal Irrigation System. You can explain this process to your caregiver and ask them to help you.
Apart from the single-use catheter, all other Peristeen Plus parts can be washed in mild, soapy water. The tubes can be replaced if soiled.
Always remember to dry your TAI system for at least one hour before it is put away.
Full cleaning and drying instructions can be found in the "Instructions for Use".
Important Safety Information: Peristeen Plus is available by prescription only. Peristeen Plus empties the bowel by introducing water into the bowel using a rectal catheter. The anal irrigation procedure should always be carried out with care. Bowel perforation is an extremely rare, but serious and potentially lethal complication to anal irrigation and will require immediate admission to hospital, often requiring surgery. The risk information provided here is not comprehensive. To learn more, talk to your healthcare provider to understand the risks and benefits to determine if Peristeen Plus is right for you. This treatment is prescribed by your physician. Although many patients benefit from the use of this device, results may vary. For further questions, call Coloplast Corp. at 1-855-605-7594 and/or consult the company website at www.coloplast.us
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.
