Ostomy Care

Question 1

surgically created opening into the colon through the abdomen

Answer 1

colostomy

Question 2

purpose of colostomy

Answer 2

Its purpose is to allow the stool to bypass a diseased or damaged part of the colon.

Question 3

where can a colostomy be made

Answer 3

may be made at almost any point along the length of the colon.

Question 4

how long do colostomies last

Answer 4

may be temporary or permanent, depending on the medical reason for the surgery

Question 5

what kind of patients may need a colostomy

Answer 5

people with chronic, non-healing wounds or those needing bowel management.

Question 6

surgically created opening into the small intestine through the abdomen

Answer 6

ileostomy

Question 7

what is removed in an ileostomy

Answer 7

section of the small intestine and the colon have been removed or bypassed.

Question 8

how are ileostomies constructeed

Answer 8

the surgeon brings part of the small intestine (ileum) through the abdominal wall to create a stoma.

Question 9

surgically created opening usually on the abdomen.

Answer 9

urostomy or urinary diversion

Question 10

allows urine to flow out of the body after the bladder has been removed or bypassed

Answer 10

urostomy

Question 11

how are ileal conduits made

Answer 11

the surgeon removes a short segment of the small intestine (ileum). This short segment of intestine will be used as a conduit for urine to flow out of the body.

Question 12

what is a healthy looking stoma

Answer 12

red and moist

Question 13

should stomas be painful

Answer 13

no

Question 14

what foods increase flatus

Answer 14

Asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, fish, eggs, garlic, onions, certain spices

Question 15

what foods should be avoided if have stoma

Answer 15

foods that increase gas

Question 16

stoma patient education

Answer 16

Eat a balanced diet
Eat slowly and chew food well
Drink plenty of fluids (water) to prevent dehydration

Question 17

what should stoma patients do if experiencing diarrhea

Answer 17

continue to hydrate and try eating these foods to thicken stool: applesauce, bananas, cheese, creamy peanut butter, pretzels, white rice, white toast, and yogurt

Question 18

what meds should stoma patients check with their provider about

Answer 18

enteric-coated or sustained release as they may not absorb the same if the patient no longer has a colon.

Question 19

when should pouches be changed or emptied

Answer 19

Empty pouch when it is half-full
Change pouch if any leaking is noted
Measure stoma size and ensure pouch is flush with stoma

Question 20

typical wear for a pouch

Answer 20

3-7 days

Question 21

the patient needs to see the provider or Wound Ostomy Nurse when..

Answer 21

the pouch is leaking daily or there is peri-stomal breakdown

Question 22

what is possible with a stoma

Answer 22

Exercise and activity with an ostomy is possible
Swimming is possible
Sex is possible!