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Ileostomy Care: A Guide for Home Care Clinicians
Linda Berti-Hearn1, Brenda Elliott
1Linda Berti-Hearn, MSN, RN, CWOCN, is a Wound Ostomy Nurse, Virtua Health-Home Health Division, Mt. Laurel, New Jersey. Brenda Elliott, PhD, RN, CNE, is an Assistant Professor, Wilson College, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.
Abstract:
This article focuses on the care and management of patients living with an ileostomy. Due to shortened hospital stays, patient teaching related to self-care of ostomies has shifted from the hospital to the home setting. It is important for home care clinicians to be knowledgeable about all aspects of ostomy care. Patients with ileostomies are particularly prone to peristomal skin problems, as well as fluid and electrolyte and nutritional imbalances. This article reviews the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal tract, indications for the creation of an ileostomy, and prevention and treatment of early and late complications. Practical advice on ileostomy care and patient teaching is provided.
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An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an artificial opening from the intestines to the outside of the body, allowing for the rerouting of effluent. This opening is known as a stoma. A stoma usually protrudes above the skin surface, appearing pink or red, moist, and round, and it lacks nerve sensations.
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