Ostomy-What to Know
What There Is To Know Before Ostomy Surgery
by Leslie P. Wilson MS, RN, CWOCN, Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurse
Research from Ostomy Wound Management (May and October 2015 issues) suggests adjusting to living with an ostomy benefits from what to expect before the surgery. If you or someone you know is having surgery which will lead to an intestinal stoma or ostomy, whether it is temporary or permanent, consider asking the following of the healthcare professional before surgery:
Some questions to ask:
- What does stoma construction entail?
- What will stoma look like?
- What should I expect before surgery
- Will the stoma site be marked prior to surgery?
- Is there preoperative teaching available for caring of my stoma?
- Tell me what to expect after surgery
- What resources are available for support?
- How do I know I can perform self-management?
Feelings associated with this type of surgery may include: anxiety, fear of rejection, depression, deterioration in body image, & loneliness. These emotions interfere with learning to live with an ostomy. Ongoing positive support of a partner or caregiver is important for social adjustment after surgery.
Other support available includes the United Ostomy Association of America Inc. www.ostomy.org or by calling 1.800.826.0826. This web site has a wealth of information including:
- Ostomate’s Bill of Rights
- Support Groups
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Support Groups
- Ostomate’s Bill of Rights
- Discussion board
- Conferences & event
- Ostomy Supply Manufactures & Distributors
- UOAA’s Living with an Ostomy Video
- Swimming and Aquatic Therapy for Ostomates
- Traveling Tips
- The Phoenix Magazine
Certified Wound Ostomy and Continence Nurses ( CWOCN’s) also known as ET nurses play an important role in assessing persons concerns. Ostomy nurses provide teaching, stoma site marking and are involved in assessing needs for the ostomate (one living with an ostomy). To find the closest CWOCN in your area go to www.wocn.org, patient information; find a nurse in your area.
Leslie Wilson is a Certified Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurse with Home Nursing Agency, Altoona, PA. Her duties include problem-solving complex ostomy and wound care; chart audits; and collaboration with product suppliers, nursing supervisors, and physicians. Leslie serves as a mentor to clinical staff in patients homes to educate about the care of ostomies.
