Colostomy care

Abstract

Psychic preparation of the patient for the necessity of colostomy is a long first step toward his adjustment to living with an artificial anus. Proper surgical placement of the outlet will ease care of the bowel. Control of fecal consistency and peristaltic rate should ideally produce constipation responsive only to habit or enemata. The object of the enema is to produce an evacuation thorough enough to prevent soiling for a day or two. The object of dietary variations is to produce a manageable volume and consistency of fecal stream. The technique of enemas and choice of diet can be individualized when the underlying principles are understood.