Patient/caregiver was educated on findings to report to the physician as follows:
- Poorly chewed food with bigger chunks in swallowed portion can increase the risk for blockage of stoma in individuals with ileostomy. Individuals with stoma blockage could present with nausea, vomiting, swelling of stoma with discoloration, and swollen abdomen, thus precipitating an emergency. Report to the physician regarding symptoms of stoma blockage ASAP for recommendation on relief measures.
- Individuals on ileostomy lose significant amounts of water and electrolytes in the stool. As a result of fluid and electrolyte loss, all these individuals are at increased risk for presentation with dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Individuals with ileostomy must observe closely for signs and symptoms of evolving dehydration, such as, feeling thirsty, dark-colored urine, feeling lightheaded, and dry mouth & lips. Report to the physician regarding development of dehydration & electrolyte imbalance for recommendation on relief measures.
- Occasionally the stoma could move inward and become smaller or the intestines at the stoma could bulge outward under the skin. These unusual changes in contour at the stoma site could make attachment of the bag difficult, resulting in leakage, skin irritation, and need for frequent bag change. Use of accessory products and/or revision surgery for ileostomy could be considered for management of such cases. Individuals on ileostomy must maintain a close watch for any changing contour of the stoma and report to the physician appropriately for recommendation on relief measures.
