A nurse cares for a client with colon cancer who has a new colostomy. The client states, "I think it would be helpful to talk with someone who has had a similar experience." How should the nurse respond?

Question

a. "I have a good friend with a colostomy who would be willing to talk with you."
b. "The enterostomal therapist will be able to answer all of your questions."
c. "I will make a referral to the United Ostomy Associations of America."
d. "You'll find that most people with colostomies don't want to talk about them."

Answer 1

ANS: C
Nurses need to become familiar with community-based resources to better assist clients. The local chapter of the United Ostomy Associations of America has resources for clients and their families, including Ostomates (specially trained visitors who also have ostomies). The nurse should not suggest that the client speak with a personal contact of the nurse. Although the enterostomal therapist is an expert in ostomy care, talking with him or her is not the same as talking with someone who actually has had a colostomy. The nurse should not brush aside the client's request by saying that most people with colostomies do not want to talk about them. Many people are willing to share their ostomy experience in the hope of helping others.