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Post-Operation Nursing Care of a Patient Who Has Undergone an Ileostomy Surgery

Ileostomy surgery involves creating an opening in a patient's abdomen through which the patient can release waste into an external bag. Following the surgery, patients must receive nursing care to help them heal properly and learn how to use the ileostomy bag.

  1. Duration

    • A patient typically spends the first five days in the hospital recovering from the surgical procedure, according to the Ileostomy Surgery Information Center. The nursing staff introduces the patient to a liquid diet on the fifth day. After two more days, the patient may leave the hospital.

    Assessment

    • As the ileostomy patient recovers, the nursing staff must evaluate the stoma (the surgical opening) to make sure it is healing properly, according to John Dempsey Hospital. The nurses must monitor the stoma size, shape and color for any signs of problems, while draining fluid from the area as needed.

    Instruction

    • The nursing staff must teach an ileostomy patient the correct use of and care of his catheter and external bag. The nurses instruct the patient on how to empty the bag, and how to make this process a part of everyday life. The nurses will also provide written instructions to help the patient continue his regimen after he leaves the hospital.

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