The nurse is seeing a patient at home with a new colostomy. In formulating the plan of care, what is the priority long-term goal for this patient? The patient will:

Question

a. Adjust emotionally to the colostomy and lifestyle change
b. Verbalize appropriate steps in caring for his colostomy
c. Assume self-care in colostomy management
d. Experience soft stool with minimal flatus

Answer 1

C
Patients experience a variety of reactions to a bowel diversion, and each person has unique physical and psychological needs. Initially, the nurse will care for the colostomy and teach the patient how to care for it. The ultimate, priority goal is for the patient to assume self-care and a normal life. Although patient acceptance of his or her colostomy is important, the nurse cannot assume any patient will accept the lifestyle change. Some patients may never feel comfortable with a bowel diversion. However, if the patient has been sick before surgery and the ostomy leads to less pain or discomfort, the transition and acceptance may be easier. Verbalizing the steps of colostomy care and passing soft stool with minimal flatus are important short-term goals. However, they are merely small steps toward the long-term goal of self-care and management.