Postoperative care of ileostomy :
Stools are released from the stoma which is in liquid form An
ostomy pouch is applied to the stoma to contain the drainage. There
might be slight bleeding from the stoma along with stools. It is
common for the early postoperative period. However frequent
assessment of stoma is necessary as the color of the stoma might
indicate some concern. A healthy stoma is pink or red in color but
a dusky brown or black stoma might be due to some fungal infection
or rash or irritation.
The client should be informed of all the things to keep a check
of. As stoma starts functioning, The ostomy pouch should be emptied
and reattached.
- Checking for drainage in the pouch. The pouch should be emptied
as soon as it one-third filled. Leaving the pouch attached to be
filled up completely could lead to a breakage of the skin seal. So
emptying the pouch when it's one-third filled should be the primary
focus of the patient.
- Assessing the skin around the stoma. It should be pink or red
in color and free from any sort of irritation or rashes. A skin
barrier should be used on the pouch and if the patient reports any
irritation or discomfort, The pouch should be replaced with a new
one.
- The patient should be taught how to reattach the clamps on the
pouch, How to empty, rinse the pouch on their own.
- Sharp objects could accidentally cut the stoma leading to an
infection. Patients should be advised not to use any razors or
trimmers to shave the hair from the area of surgery.
- Teaching the patient about the difference between a healthy and
infected stoma. With every pouch change, The color and condition of
the stoma should be noted. Frequent pouch changes may lead to
infection and damage to peristomal skin.
- All abnormal changes in the appearance of the stoma should be
reported immediately as some changes might need surgical
repairs.
- Diet should be maintained. Any foods that cause constipation
and gas should be avoided.
- Contact the doctor if any discomfort or infection occurs near
the stoma.