A nurse is reinforcing teaching for a client who has a new ascending colostomy. Which of the following comments by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "I will notify my doctor if the stoma starts to look purple.": A stoma that appears purple can indicate compromised blood flow or ischemia, which is a medical emergency. Recognizing this sign and notifying the healthcare provider demonstrates understanding of proper stoma care and potential complications. B. "I will irrigate the colostomy every day.": Ascending colostomies typically produce liquid to semi-liquid stool and are not routinely irrigated. Daily irrigation is usually reserved for descending or sigmoid colostomies to regulate bowel movements. C. "I should expect my stool to be formed.": Stool from an ascending colostomy is usually liquid or semi-liquid because the stool has not yet passed through the majority of the colon where water absorption occurs. Expecting formed stool indicates a misunderstanding of colostomy output. D. "I will empty the pouch every 2 to 3 hours.": Ascending colostomy output is frequent and liquid, but pouches are generally emptied when they are one-third to one-half full, not on a strict schedule. Overly frequent emptying is unnecessary and may increase the risk of skin irritation.