Pouching Pearls: Introduction to an Ostomy

In nursing school, ostomies receive limited attention making them intimidating for many clinicians. Yet, due to the increase in ostomy surgeries performed annually across the United States, there is a good chance that an ostomate will come under your care soon. When that time comes, are you equipped to offer the level of support that an ostomy patient requires? Ostomy management can be complex, but this course provides a solid introduction. First, a review of ostomy construction with key terminology and conditions warranting ostomy creation will be discussed. Then, the three most common ostomy types with implications for care are examined in detail. Lastly, ideal stoma features and teaching tips for patients are discussed. Nurses, elevate your practice with this course.

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Objectives

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

  1. Define an ostomy and two key terms.
  2. List two conditions that can lead to an ostomy.
  3. Identify three types of ostomies and 1 characteristic of each.
  4. Name two characteristics of an ideal stoma. 
  5. Discuss 2 teaching tips for patients.

Curriculum

Chapter 1: What is an Ostomy?

  • What is an ostomy?
  • Anatomy of an ostomy
  • Loop vs end stoma
  • Conditions warranting an ostomy
Chapter 2: Three Common Ostomy Types and Its Characteristics
  • Ileostomy
  • Colostomy
  • Urostomy (What is an ileal conduit)?
Chapter 3: Characteristics of an Ideal Stoma
  • Ideal vs not ideal
Chapter 4: Four Teaching Tips 
  • Reduction in stoma size/blockage
  • Pouch leakage
  • Dehydration
  • Emotional support
Chapter 5: References

Price: $10.00

Contact Hour: 1

Course Author

Yvette Aidoo-Forson

Yvette Aidoo-Forson is a Registered Nurse who launched an educational consulting firm, New Skin RN LLC. She graduated nursing school in 2005 and is a Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (WOC) with over 10 years of experience managing patients with impaired skin, wound and ostomies. Passionate about her specialty, Yvette enjoys sharing her expertise and has authored several articles published on her LinkedIn page and website blog.

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