The pre- and postoperative nursing care for patients with a stoma

Abstract

This article revisits the various issues that surround the nurse caring for a patient with a stoma (colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy). Understanding the basic anatomy, reasons for stoma formation and the surgical operations, including variations such as continent stomas, can assist the nurse in caring for this patient group. The article discusses briefly the various stoma appliances that can be used by the nurse or ostomate (person with a stoma). Practical tips on pre- and postoperative nursing care of the patient with a newly formed stoma are provided for the nurse. In some cases, unfortunately, complications may occur following stoma-forming surgery; these are discussed and nursing advice provided. One of the most important ways in which the nurse can support the patient is to teach the patient his/her stoma care, ensuring independence before discharge and showing empathy and compassion.

A randomized controlled trial examining the effectiveness of a STOMA psychosocial intervention programme on the outcomes of colorectal patients with a stoma: study protocol

“…Patients reported a change in physical functioning, accompanied by complications of leakage, skin and stoma problems and/or odour (Nugent et al . , Burch , , Black ). The psychological challenges include anxiety, depression and body image disturbance (Martinez , Ross et al .…”

“…With the loss of a significant body function and distorted body image, patients with stoma often experience challenges physically, psychologically and socially (Bekkers et al 1996). Patients reported a change in physical functioning, accompanied by complications of leakage, skin and stoma problems and/or odour (Nugent et al 1999, Burch 2005, Black 2011. The psychological challenges include anxiety, depression and body image disturbance (Martinez 2005, Ross et al 2007, which may lead to reduced self-esteem, unhealthy self-concept and sexual disorder (Grogan 2008).…”

Nutrition in Stoma Patients: A Practical View of Dietary Therapy

“…1 Dietary advice is an important aspect of patients with stoma. The ostomy diet is necessary to keep stools normal following surgery, since the amount, frequency and consistency of stool is influenced by the diet.…”

Assessment of knowledge and skills of neonatal nurses on peristomal skin care

“…Failure to use a measuring guide and curve-tipped scissors to cut the material accurately may result in peristomal skin damage due to faecal contamination of the peristomal skin area (Black, 2007;Burch, 2005).…”