Question

Multiple-choice question: A few days after surgery Donna goes over to the inpatient unit on her break to see Mr. Harrison; she should expect what kind of drainage in his colostomy bag? A. Urine B. Hydrochloric acid C. Blood D. Stool

Short answer

D. Stool

Step-by-step solution

Define a Colostomy

A colostomy is a surgical procedure where a portion of the large intestine, or colon, is brought through a surgical opening in the abdomen. A bag is attached to this opening to collect waste products that usually pass through the colon and out of the body in the stool.

Identify possible drainage

The options provided include urine, hydrochloric acid, blood, and stool. Urine comes out through the urinary tract, hydrochloric acid is present in the stomach, and blood indicates injury.

Connect the facts

Considering the function of a colostomy bag, it is used to collect stool bypassing through the colon. Therefore, the kind of drainage you would expect in Mr. Harrison's colostomy bag post-surgery would be stool.

Key concepts

Nursing Education

Nursing education involves training individuals to provide care effectively and compassionately to patients. It covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students learn about human anatomy, medication administration, and patient communication.
Practical training includes internships and hands-on workshops. These experiences prepare students for real-life scenarios they will encounter in healthcare settings. Nurses must stay updated with medical advancements and procedures, ensuring they deliver the highest quality care.
Nursing education also emphasizes critical thinking and decision-making. These skills are crucial for assessing patient conditions and developing effective care plans. By understanding how to adapt quickly and efficiently, nursing students become competent professionals in various medical fields.

Colostomy Care

Colostomy care is an essential part of post-operative management for patients like Mr. Harrison. It involves routine care of the stoma and the colostomy bag. This ensures hygiene and prevents complications such as infections.
Key steps in colostomy care include:

• Cleansing the stoma and surrounding skin gently to prevent irritation.
• Ensuring the colostomy bag is fitted properly to avoid leaks.
• Emptying the bag regularly to maintain comfort and hygiene.

Patients are educated on how to manage their colostomy at home. This education helps them adjust to changes and live comfortably with their new body functions. Support from healthcare providers is vital during this transition to ensure their quality of life is maintained.

Post-Surgical Care

Post-surgical care is critical for patient recovery after an operation like a colostomy. The primary goal is to prevent complications such as infections or blood clots, and promote healing.
Nurses play a pivotal role in post-surgical care by monitoring vital signs and managing pain. They ensure that surgical sites are clean and dressing is changed appropriately. Effective post-surgical care can prevent re-hospitalization and speed up recovery time.
Additionally, nutritional guidance and physical therapy might be recommended to support the healing process. This holistic approach is vital in aiding patients to regain their normal life as quickly as possible, ensuring both physical and emotional well-being.

Inpatient Management

Inpatient management refers to the comprehensive care provided to patients admitted in a hospital setting. This includes continuous monitoring, medication administration, and collaboration among healthcare team members.
Effective inpatient management requires understanding the specific needs of each patient. For those with a new colostomy, tailored care plans are developed to ensure proper stoma care and patient comfort.
Nurses coordinate with doctors, dietitians, and physiotherapists to provide holistic care. This team approach ensures that every aspect of a patient's recovery is addressed. The goal is to prepare inpatients for a seamless transition to home or another care facility, fully equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for self-care.