The Role of Occupational Therapists in Ostomy Management As an occupational therapist (OT), you specialize in helping patients reclaim independence in daily life. But have you considered your pivotal role in ostomy management? Ostomies, whether for colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy, can disrupt routines like dressing, bathing, or even intimacy. That’s where OTs shine—bridging physical adaptation … Read more
Common Ostomy Complications and How to Prevent Them Living with an ostomy can be life-changing, but complications like skin irritation or leaks can make it challenging. For instance, many patients face these issues due to improper fit or care routines. As nurses or caregivers, understanding and preventing complications is key to patient comfort and confidence. … Read more
Ostomy management for those with low vision or blind Navigating Ostomy Management for Individuals Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision Managing an ostomy can feel overwhelming at first, but for individuals who are blind or have low vision, unique challenges arise that require thoughtful adaptations. With the right tools, techniques, and support, ostomy management … Read more
Ostomy Management Specialist Recertification Once you are certified as an ostomy management specialist, you have three pathways to renew your certification which you must do every 5 years. The National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy (NAWCO) provides three pathways to complete your recertification: examination, continuing education or training course. We will review each pathway … Read more
What is a J-Pouch? A J-pouch as it’s commonly referred to is an ileal pouch anal anastomosis. This is a type of surgery that is typically done for individuals with Ulcerative Colitis. What the surgeon does is remove the patient’s colon and creates an internal pouch in the shape of a J (hence J-pouch). This … Read more
What is an Indiana Pouch? An Indiana Pouch is a type of continent urinary diversion that is most commonly done after a patient is diagnosed with bladder cancer. Not all bladder cancers require this type of surgery. But, when conservative treatments fail and surgery is needed to remove the bladder, the Indiana Pouch is what … Read more
What is a Kock Pouch? A Kock pouch is a type of continent fecal diversion that allows the patient to empty their bowels in a different way. Any time the digestive system is not working properly, a surgeon can perform a continent or incontinent diversion. As seen in the picture above, with a Kock … Read more
Children with an Ostomy There are many conditions that can lead to an ostomy. Ostomy surgery can occur at any age, including newborns. While most ostomies in children are temporary, there are some conditions that require a permanent ostomy. Even if you do not work in a pediatric setting, it is important to have a … Read more
Ostomy Pouches There are so many different types of ostomy pouches that it can be confusing for not only patients but for nurses and therapists as well. In the past there were only a handful of pouching systems to choose from, but thankfully there are now a variety of products that have been created to … Read more
What is a loop ostomy? 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. … Read more