Barbara Borwell DipCounselling, is Clinical Nurse Specialist, Stoma/Breast Care, Salisbury District Hospital
Aim and intended learning outcomes
The aim of this article is to increase nurses' knowledge and understanding of the common types of colostomy and to outline the basic principles of management. After reading this article, the nurse should be able to:
Discuss indications for surgery
Differentiate between common types of colostomy operations
Understand the principles of management of patients with stomas
Apply this knowledge in order to plan and provide effective care for patients with stomas
Refer clients to available sources of help and support