How to handle/mask feces smell...any tips of the trade?

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Hello, all. I am training to become a CNA now and start nursing school next week. The only problem I

am having is handling the strong smell of feces. For some reason, I can change my cats' litter boxes and that

smell doesn't bother me, babies' diapers don't bother me at all, but the smell of adult feces kind of makes

me want to gag. My CNA changed a colostomy bag last night and I know they're going to make me do

that at some point. I wish I could stop my nose from working while on duty, then I'd be fine. :) I have heard

that putting a little Vicks under your nose helps. Any other tips would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks so much!

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Even some seasoned nurses can't stand the smell of colostomy bags! The only advice I have is: you will get used to it. That's probably why changing your cat's litter box doesn't make you gag... you know you have to do it all the time, so you deal with the smell. I carry around a small 2 oz bottle of air freshener in my pocket (from our clean hold), so when the smell is real bad, i spritz a lot upon leaving the room, while smiling and politely telling them I'm just trying to freshen it up in there. Most people don't care, and some even tell me to come prepared with the spray! haha. Yeah, sorry for the lack of advice, but I promise it will get better!

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Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

Here are some threads with many helpful tips:

https://allnurses.com/cna-ma-nursing/smell-538711.html

https://allnurses.com/general-nursing-student/any-tips-smells-650847.html

https://allnurses.com/general-nursing-discussion/how-do-you-556581.html

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I used to spray a little perfume on the shoulder of my uniform and when the smells get a bit overwhelming I'd just turn my nose into my shoulder and sniff the perfume. Vick's can be good but for some it makes their eyes water which can be another problem if you have soiled glove on.

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at the hospital where i work, RNs and CNAs wear surgical masks if the odor is really unbearable. it helps a little but doesn't completely shield you from the smell.

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Overtime you'll get used to it. I was like that the first time I encountered a GI bleed.

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Wow! Great suggestions! Like everyone said, You'll get used to it....I did:) it does take awhile tho...I just thought of something else during "the procedure" like, "Gee, at least I'm NOT dealing with puke!" LOL :)

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Hello, all. I am training to become a CNA now and start nursing school next week. The only problem I

am having is handling the strong smell of feces. For some reason, I can change my cats' litter boxes and that

smell doesn't bother me, babies' diapers don't bother me at all, but the smell of adult feces kind of makes

me want to gag. My CNA changed a colostomy bag last night and I know they're going to make me do

that at some point. I wish I could stop my nose from working while on duty, then I'd be fine. :) I have heard

that putting a little Vicks under your nose helps. Any other tips would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks so much!

I changed my perception to elimination being a normal body function. After that I don't mind it. Don't forget to report observed changes in elimination or constipation!

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Thanks, everyone, for the great suggestions! I do hope I get desensitized over time. I'm going

to try all these suggestions and find the best one for me. Unfortunately, though, we're not

allowed to wear masks unless there's a risk of splatter; can't wear one just because it's stinky. LOL

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