An ostomy is a surgical procedure causing a change in the way urine and/or stool exit the body. A stoma, an opening in the abdominal wall, is created allowing waste to exit the body.
Waste is collected in a properly fitted pouching system that is affixed to the abdomen and can be emptied and changed as needed.
People with ostomies can live full and meaningful lives that include swimming, working, playing sports and having relationships.
Best Practices for a person with an ostomy include access to high-quality knowledgeable care in all healthcare settings.
When patients know what to expect and are mentally and physically prepared for surgery, they do better. Our NSWOCs can explain and counsel you pre-operatively.
Stoma location is vital to your independence. Our NSWOC’s work with your surgeon to assess the best location for your stoma by assessing your abdomen and pre-marking your abdomen.
Post-Operative
As your health improves and your activity increases your ostomy pouch fit will change putting you at risk for leakage. Our NSWOCs will make sure that you are in the right product; safe, secure and cost-effective.
Peristomal skin irritation is common and painful. They will help you to recognize the causes of skin irritation and teach you the steps toprevent it.
Surgical wound care is often done at home by the patient. Our NSWOCs will assess and help you to manage your post-surgical wound. They will teach you how to recognize the signs of infection and what to do if you see them.
Many chronic wounds are hard to heal. Our NSWOCs will ensure that you know how to support your body to heal.
Tune Ups
As you recover from surgery and return to your former activities, your ostomy needs will change.
Our NSWOCs will ensure that you are getting the best wear time out of your pouching system, avoiding leakage and skin irritation and help you to thrive with your ostomy.
We recommend annual assessments of pouching product fit to ensure that your ostomy does not prevent you from doing all that you want to do.
