A loop ostomy is a type of surgical procedure that involves creating a stoma by using a loop of the intestine, hence the name “loop ostomy.” A loop of the intestine is brought to the surface of the abdomen and a stoma is formed so stool can exit the body. With a loop stoma, typically … Read more
Preparing for the Ostomy Management Specialist board certification exam is no easy task. I know how stressful and nerve-racking it can be not knowing if you are going to pass. The truth is that even really skilled clinicians can have difficulties and not test well. I’ve had many nurses reach out to me that had … Read more
Loss of control of the bowels is referred to as fecal incontinence. There are many causes of fecal incontinence but one reason is when there is damage or an injury to the neurological system. Neurogenic bowel is the term used when there is a loss of control of the bowel as a result of damage … Read more
Incontinence, or loss of control of the bladder affects as many as 80 million people in the United States. There are many types of incontinence which can occur as a result of a disability or injury. One example is when there is an injury or problem with the neurological system. Neurogenic bladder is the term … Read more
When the bladder is unable to empty properly, your doctor may recommend you insert a catheter to allow urine to exit the body. Intermittent catheterization refers to inserting a catheter into the bladder via the urethra intermittently, commonly every 4-6 hours. This is in contrast to an indwelling catheter such as a foley or suprapubic, … Read more
As an occupational therapist that specializes in bowel and bladder management, when I work with patients on catheter or colostomy management, I often hear from other healthcare professionals, “I didn’t know OT’s did that!” The occupational therapy profession, like other healthcare disciplines, have evolved and changed over the years. While most people are aware that … Read more
As an occupational therapist, it has always been my role to help maximize clients’ safety and independence with their occupations or activities of daily living (ADL). “The Big Five”, as I like to call it, are eating, grooming, bathing, dressing and toileting. In the early part of my career I noticed something very interesting about … Read more
When the urinary or digestive system is not working properly, a surgeon can create an opening in the abdomen. This allows bodily waste to be rerouted from its usual path because of malfunctioning parts of the urinary or digestive system. An ostomy can be temporary or permanent. The surgery itself is called an ostomy. A … Read more