Question:
My baby has an ostomy and will soon be returning to my care. I’ve been told that a nurse will provide me with teaching, but I’m also hoping to get a pediatric ostomy doll or something similar so we can practice at home. The nursing agency said they don’t have a doll available. Do you know where I could get one, or any alternatives?
Answer:
Thank you for your excellent question, and for being such a proactive caregiver. It’s great to hear that you’re preparing for your baby’s transition back home with hands-on practice.
There are a few ways to explore pediatric ostomy teaching tools:
1. Contact Ostomy Product Manufacturers
Some ostomy manufacturers offer pediatric training materials, such as stuffed animals with mock stomas or small models used in nurse education. It’s worth contacting the Canadian branches of these companies to ask about what pediatric tools they might have available:
Customer service representatives may be able to connect you with a local representative who can send samples or tools.
2. Connect With a Children’s Hospital NSWOC
A Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC) at your nearest children’s hospital may have access to training dolls or other creative teaching tools. They can also guide you on age-specific care techniques and equipment for pediatric ostomy management. You can find a local NSWOC using this link:
3. Create a Homemade Teaching Tool
If you’re not able to get an official ostomy doll, here’s a simple way to make a homemade version:
- Use a small pillow or soft toy as the body.
- Stick a gumdrop or similar object to it using double-sided tape to simulate a stoma.
- This can help you practice pouch placement and develop comfort with the steps before caring for your baby’s real stoma.
You’re doing a wonderful job by planning ahead, and we wish you all the best as you care for your child.
Answered by
Andrea Manson (BSN, NSWOC, NCA, Retired Nurse and Ostomy Specialist)
Medical and Lifestyle Advisory Team Lead,
Ostomy Canada Society
