a. It is the responsibility of the nursing staff to help the patient become independent and self-sufficient in the care of his colostomy.<\/p>\n
However, do not permit colostomy care and teaching to dominate the nursing interaction. Take an interest in the patient and treat him, as a person-who just happens to have a colostomy. This will discourage the patient from dwelling on the idea that he is somehow “different” or “abnormal” because of his colostomy.<\/p>\n
b. To promote self-sufficiency and return to normal living, follow these nursing guidelines.<\/p>\n
(1) When the patient is ready, encourage participation in colostomy care.<\/p>\n
(2) To promote a relaxed atmosphere, ensure complete privacy for the patient if desired.<\/p>\n
(3) To emphasize return to normal bowel evacuation habits, perform colostomy irrigations in the bathroom while the patient is seated on the toilet.<\/p>\n
(4) Unless contraindicated, eliminate the use of gloves during irrigation and dressing changes. This will discourage the patient from feeling that colostomy care is a “dirty” procedure.<\/p>\n
(5) Encourage the patient to learn and perform good care. This will promote a clean, odor-free stoma and prevent excoriation of the peristomal skin.<\/p>\n
(6) Follow and assist the patient as he progresses to a normal diet.<\/p>\n
(a) Diet will aid in establishing regularity.<\/p>\n
(b) The patient should experiment with different foods and food combinations, as each individual responds differently to various foods. (There are no set rules about foods to avoid.)<\/p>\n
(c) By experience, the patient will discover which foods cause gas, loose stools, distention, or discomfort. (Chewing slowly with the mouth closed may help to reduce gas.)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
a. It is the responsibility of the nursing staff to help the patient become independent and self-sufficient in the care of his colostomy. However, do not permit colostomy care and teaching to dominate the nursing interaction. Take an interest in the patient and treat him, as a person-who just happens to have a colostomy. This … Continue reading 1-44. GENERAL NURSING IMPLICATIONS\u00a0<\/span>