colostomy
Procedures
SN instructed patient to eat foods at a regular time each day. Eating 4 to 6 smaller meals may help to promote a regular bowel pattern.
SN instructed patient to try eating the main dinner meal at noon and a smaller meal in the evening. This helps to reduce the stool output at night.
SN instructed patient to chew foods completely to help the digestive process. Especially avoid swallowing large pieces of leafy vegetables since they can block the stoma opening on the abdominal wall.
SN instructed patient to drink 2 to 3 quarts of water a day. This helps to keep the stool fluid, and it also prevents dehydration.
SN instructed patient to drink more water and fruit juices, up to six to eight glasses per day. Include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, as well as fibrous foods such as whole-grain breads and cereals to prevent constipation.
SN instructed patient that to reduce diarrhea, omit fiber and bulk from your meals and eat foods that thicken your stools, such as white rice, applesauce, bananas, creamy peanut butter, yogurt, pasta, and bread. Continued diarrhea can cause dehydration, so increase the amount of fluids in your diet.
SN instructed patient to should eat three or more times a day. Small frequent meals may be better tolerated and produce less gas.
SN instructed patient that too much of any food can cause problems; eat moderate amounts and slowly to allow proper chewing and digestion. If a new food seems to give problems, don’t eat it for a few weeks, but try it again later.
Empty your pouch when one-third to one-half full. Change your skin barrier every 3-7 days. You should not experience frequent leakage of your pouch seal. If you do, consult a WOC Nurse. Usually soap is not needed to clean the peristomal skin. If you use soap, make sure it does not contain any oils or lotions that can interfere with adhesives. Always rinse your skin and dry completely before you adhere the new pouch. After you apply your skin barrier, hold it in place against your skin for about one minute. This will help to activate the adhesive. You can shower, bathe, or swim with your ostomy after you are cleared by your physician. If you are using a bedside collection bag, clean it daily with a recommended solution to help minimize odor, crystal formation, and bacteria.
Patient was instructed about showering and bathing. The pouches are waterproof therefore you can wear it in the shower. Your pouch will remain intact when underwater, bathing bathing or swimming.