A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a new ostomy.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
A.
“Apply sterile gloves when changing your ostomy pouch.”
B.
“Notify the provider if your stoma becomes pink and moist.”
C.
“Empty your ostomy pouch when it is half full.”
D.
“Use a moisturizing soap to cleanse your stoma.”
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. “Empty your ostomy pouch when it is half full.”
Explanation
Proper management of an ostomy is essential for maintaining the health of the stoma and the surrounding skin, as well as for ensuring the comfort and quality of life for the client. Here’s why option C is the correct answer:
- Importance of Emptying the Pouch: It is recommended to empty the ostomy pouch when it is about one-third to one-half full. This prevents the pouch from becoming too heavy, which can cause it to pull away from the skin or cause leaks. By emptying the pouch regularly, the risk of these issues is minimized, and the pouch can adhere better to the skin, which helps to avoid potential skin irritation and infections.
- Avoiding Skin Issues: If the pouch is allowed to become too full, it increases the risk of leakage and skin irritation around the stoma. An overfilled pouch can create pressure on the stoma and the surrounding skin, leading to discomfort and potential damage. Regular emptying helps maintain the integrity of the stoma site and the surrounding skin.
- Comfort and Convenience: An overly full pouch can be uncomfortable and more noticeable to the client, which can affect their confidence and quality of life. By following a routine of emptying the pouch when it is half full, the client can maintain better comfort and avoid unnecessary stress or embarrassment.
The other options are not appropriate for ostomy care:
- A. “Apply sterile gloves when changing your ostomy pouch.” While maintaining cleanliness is crucial, sterile gloves are generally not necessary for changing an ostomy pouch. Clean gloves are typically sufficient unless there is a specific clinical indication for sterile technique.
- B. “Notify the provider if your stoma becomes pink and moist.” This instruction is incorrect. A healthy stoma should indeed be pink or red and moist. If the stoma appears pale, dark, or dry, that could indicate a problem.
- D. “Use a moisturizing soap to cleanse your stoma.” Moisturizing soaps can leave residues that may interfere with the adhesion of the ostomy pouch. It is recommended to use plain water or a mild soap that is free from lotions and fragrances to cleanse the area around the stoma.
By focusing on proper pouch management and routine care, the nurse helps the client maintain the best possible outcomes with their new ostomy.