Essential Guide to Ileostomy Care

Oct 18, 2024

Care of the Patient with an Ileostomy

Introduction

  • Professor D's YouTube channel focuses on nursing topics.
  • Lecture includes prayer and encouragement to like and support the channel.
  • Resources available on NexusNursingInstitute.com.

Key Concepts for Ileostomy Care

Changing the Ileostomy Pouch

  • Frequency: Change every 4-7 days unless there is leakage.
  • Avoid answers with absolute terms like "only," "always," "never".

Preparing Psychologically for Ileostomy Surgery

  • Best Action: Provide a short but thorough explanation of pre-op and post-op procedures.
  • Avoid discussing surgery details (surgeon's responsibility).
  • Involve family members to increase compliance, but focus on educating the patient.

Pre-Surgery Instructions

  • Cease use of drugs that interfere with clotting.
  • Avoid all-inclusives, but exceptions exist for surgery prep.
  • Important to avoid hemorrhage; patient should not take anticoagulants, aspirin, ibuprofen prior to surgery.

Post-Surgery Priorities

  • Fluid and Electrolyte Balance is the Priority.
  • Ileostomy patients lose fluids and electrolytes; must be replaced.

Addressing Patient Concerns

  • Clarify misconceptions, such as fears of infertility post-ileostomy.
  • Engage in therapeutic communication.

Living with an Ileostomy

  • Invite someone with an ileostomy to discuss lifestyle adjustments pre-surgery.
  • Avoid passing the responsibility to other healthcare providers.

Signs of Proper Ileostomy Care

  • Correct application of a skin barrier results in no irritation around the stoma.

Assessing Patients with Ileostomies

  • First Assessment Priority: No drainage from the pouch in the last 5 hours; suspect obstruction.

Patient Education Post-Discharge

  • Fluid Intake: Drink at least three liters of fluid daily to prevent dehydration.
  • Avoid lifting weights or returning to work too soon post-surgery.

Emergent Symptoms

  • Notify Healthcare Provider: Sudden stomach cramps, vomiting, watery discharge; suspect obstruction.
  • Do not administer medications or fluids until evaluated by a provider.

Conclusion

  • Professor D shared information about upcoming test bank resources for NCLEX preparation, with opportunities for free memberships for feedback.
  • Emphasis on providing similar questions and practice to prepare nursing students.
  • Encouragement for feedback on contest ideas to involve students in the development of these resources.