Ileostomy Education

There may come a time in your life when caring for an ileostomy is a part of your treatment plan.  Your ileum is the lowest portion of your small intestine.  An ileostomy is an opening in the wall of your belly that is made during a surgical procedure.  This opening is used to move waste out of the body when the colon or rectum is not working properly.  Basically, the waste and urine your body produces will exit your body and be visible in a pouch that hangs at your side.  In comparison with a colostomy, an ileostomy also can also be short-term or long term.  It will take time for you to become comfortable with any type of ostomy, so allow Total Home Health to assist you with this transition. 

If your ileostomy is short-term, it usually means all of your large intestine was removed but you still have at least part of your rectum.  You will need it long-term if a more serious condition exists that result in all of your large intestine and rectum being removed.  Many different problems may lead to the need for this procedure, including:

ü  Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)

ü  Colon or rectal cancer

ü  Birth defects involving the intestinal area

ü  An accident that causes damage to your intestines

Just as with any other surgical procedure there are risks involved.  As far as after the procedure itself, there are various ways you can adjust to now having an ileostomy.  A bland diet is usually recommended by providers.  This type of diet includes foods that are soft, not very spicy, and low in fiber.  You should avoid spicy, fried, or raw foods and also alcohol and caffeinated beverages.  You should be prepared to follow this type of diet until otherwise notified for diet progression by your provider and dietitian, if one is involved.

Being familiar with caring for your stoma and knowing what to look for that should alert you to notify your provider should be a priority for you.  After surgery, your stoma will no doubt be swollen.  It will shrink over the next several weeks.  The skin around your stoma should appear like it did before your surgery; it should be warm, dry, and pink.  The drainage pouch should always be the correct size to fit around your stoma so your elimination does not leak and compromise your skin.  Your Total Home Health nurse will assist you with caring for your stoma and changing your drainage system.

Being aware of the abnormal findings related to your ileostomy is very important as a client who receives care in the home.  You are not in a 24/7 facility where there are healthcare professionals available at all times, so being aware of the following findings and not hesitating to consult your provider will decrease any complications you may have.  You should immediately notify your provider if you observe any of the following characteristics of your ileostomy appearance and/or function:

ü  Increase in swelling

ü  Bleeding more than normal

ü  Stoma appears black, white, or purple

ü  Frequent leaking or draining fluid

ü  Ill-fitting drainage system

ü  Discharge from the stoma that has an odor

ü  Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, urinating less, weakness)

ü  Persistent diarrhea, or decrease in output

ü  Fever or pain

Having an ileostomy can prove to cause many changes in your life and how you go about your usual activities.  You may experience feelings of sadness, become discouraged, ashamed or alone.  If you have any of these feelings you should consider talking it over with someone you feel close to or maybe even your healthcare provider.  As far as continuing to work, you should be able to resume working once you provider releases you to return.  Being open about your ileostomy and having a good support system will help you through this situation.  Total Home Health professionals will be at your side for continued support. 

Ultimately, as always if you have any general questions or concerns regarding your ileostomy you should never hesitate to contact your provider.  Total Home Health has a program for you, either if you have a brand new ileostomy or have had one for years.  Our experienced staff nurses are ready to join you in your journey.