• E-mail
• Print
• RSS

Caring for residents with ostomies

LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer, August 18, 2005

Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer!

The medical term "ostomy" refers to any surgical procedure that creates an artificial opening, also known as a stoma, into the body. Some of the most common types of ostomies include tracheostomies (trachea), ileostomies (small intestine), colostomies (colon), and urostomies (bladder). When caring for a resident with an ostomy, CNAs should assess the following:

• Stoma color: The stoma should appear red, similar to the lining of the inner cheek. Very pale or darker stomas with a bluish color indicate that circulation to the area may be impaired. Report any abnormal coloring of the stoma.
• Stoma size and shape: Most stomas stick out slightly from the abdomen. New stomas appear swollen. The swelling should decrease over a period of three to six weeks, but a failure to subside may indicate a deeper problem.
• Stoma bleeding: Slight bleeding is usual for about a day following surgery when the stoma is touched. After that, CNAs should report any additional bleeding.
• Skin status: CNAs should note and report any redness of the skin surrounding the stoma. Temporary redness after an adhesive is removed is normal.
• Infection: Check the stoma for signs of infection, redness, warmth, tenderness, or foul-smelling drainage.

Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer!

• E-mail to a Colleague
• Print
• RSS
• Archive