Ostomy Care
For this month's WoundSource Practice Accelerator series, we are providing education on a variety of topics related to ostomy care. Scroll below to read this month's white paper and articles, to print out our quick fact sheet, and to view other resources.
White Paper
What is an Ostomy?
There are several colorectal and urological conditions that make ostomy surgery necessary, including colorectal cancer. Although in the face of those conditions the procedure is lifesaving, patients living with an ostomy are at risk of peristomal skin complications, dehydration, and diminished quality of life, among others. This white paper details what an ostomy is, and when ostomy surgery is required. It also reviews important information regarding urostomies, colostomies, and ileostomies, inc...Fact Sheet
Quick Facts - Ostomy Care
Patients with ostomies are often at risk of complications. The degree of risk is especially high for patients with ileostomies. Depending on ostomy type, complications can include peristomal skin complication, dehydration, and obstruction. Educating patients on how to care for their ostomy is vital for positive outcomes. With a basic understanding of how to support ostomy patients, you and your staff can reduce complication rates and improve your patients’ quality of life. This fact sheet c...Featured Articles
Common Peristomal Skin Complications: How to Prevent and Manage
Peristomal skin complications (PSCs) include inflammation, injury, or damage to the skin surrounding an abdominal stoma. PSCs are among the most common challenges faced by people living with an ostomy, with as high as 80% reported incidence. Complications are highest in individuals with an ileostomy...
Read MoreOstomy Care: Where to Start
Nearly 1 out of 500 patients in the United States have an ostomy, with 150,000 new surgeries performed each year. Despite its prevalence, several myths still circulate regarding patients with ostomies. The United Ostomy Association of America (UOAA) has sought to debunk common myths, spreading aware...
Read MorePeristomal Skin Complications: How to Treat
In this interview, Alex Aningalan, MSN, RN, CWON, WCC discusses strategies wound care professionals can use in their practice to help ostomy patients struggling with even the most persistent peristomal skin complications....
Read MoreThe Basics of Caring for a Patient With An Ostomy
In this interview, Erin Testerman-Mitra, discusses ways to help ostomy patients, including pre-operative measures, when convexity is right for the patient, and patient quality of life. ...
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Important Terms to Know
