Ostomy Education

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.  Some of the most common PSCs in individuals with stomas for fecal diversion

By: Holly M. Hovan, MSN, GERO-BC, APRN, CWOCN-AP Every year, on the first Saturday of October, we celebrate ostomy awareness day. This is a significant day. Ostomies truly are lifesavers for so many people, and it is important that we bring awareness, education, and support to our patients, peers, and community. This year, the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) is celebrated the 10th anniversary of National Ostomy Awareness Day (this event began in 2010). More information on this day and virtual events can be found here: https://www.ostomy.org/ostomy-awareness-day/

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 awareness that ostomy procedures are not exclusive to the older adult population and that ostomy pouches are not easily visible through clothing and are often odor-proof.

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.

Ostomate: A person who has an ostomy. Barrier product: Cream, spray, wipe, or other product used to seal the skin and protect it from breakdown caused by moisture or incontinence. Laparotomy: A surgical incision created for abdominal surgery, typically exploratory and sometimes an emergency.

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.