When to Contact Your Stomal Therapy Nurse

Your stomal therapy nurse can be a valuable resource when you need help. Learn about the common issues and symptoms that warrant a call for assistance.

When to Contact Your Stoma Nurse

Learn when to contact your stomal therapy nurse.

Your stomal therapy nurse has the specialised training to help you care for your ostomy and address any issues that arise. These professionals are also known as “WOC” (wound, ostomy and continence) or “ET” (enterostomal therapy) nurses. Stomal therapy nurses are there to help you make a smooth transition after surgery and can give you the training you need to care for your ostomy at home. You should consider them your “go-to” resource for ostomy care education, consultation and troubleshooting.

When to contact your stoma nurse

Not every ostomy care challenge warrants contacting your stomal therapy nurse, but certain issues are causes for concern and should be assessed by a trained professional. Connect with your stomal therapy nurse if you notice any of the following problems:

Potential Issue

With This Type of Ostomy

Skin irritation

Colostomy, Ileostomy, Urostomy

A bulge in the skin around your stoma

Colostomy, Ileostomy, Urostomy

Recurrent pouching system leaks

Colostomy, Ileostomy, Urostomy

Excessive stoma bleeding

Colostomy, Ileostomy, Urostomy

Blood in your stool

Colostomy, Ileostomy

Blood in your urine

Urostomy

Persistent diarrhea

Colostomy, Ileostomy

Diarrhea with pain or vomiting

Colostomy, Ileostomy

 

For more information on stomal therapy nurses, procuring your ostomy supplies and finding a Support Group visit: How to Procure Your Ostomy Products.