Lorraine Poulos

51 Stoma Care Supporting function 1 2 3 4 Know your client: • Understand how the stoma affects day to day activities • Check care plan and be aware of equipment and bathing routine • Understand the client’s abilities to manage the stoma Before the task: • Ensure equipment kept stored away from sunlight • Attend hand hygiene. Apply gloves • Ensure the client is in a comfortable position in preparation for changing the appliance • If adhesive is not pre-cut, cut hole to correct stoma size During the task: • Remove the appliance gently and empty it according to care plan instructions • Wash the stoma with warm water and plain soap • Dry the skin around it well, and avoid creams to talcum powder to ensure hood adhesion • Check for hairs close to stoma and shave / trim ensuring cloth protecting the stoma while attending to trim After the task: • Ensure the open end of the pouch is closed • Dispose as per care plan instructions • Attend hand hygiene Document in the client Journal : • Problems with equipment • Problems with adhesion 5 Guide for consumers, carers and workers