CNA Skills – Colostomy Irrigation is the introduction of sterile solution through the artificial abdominal anus
Purpose:
1. To wash out the colon of feces, gas excess mucus, bacteria and any toxic agent that may be present
2. To promote healing of the obstructing lesion by gentle, warm irrigation
3. To give comfort to the patient
4. To teach the patient how to clean the colon
5. To establish good bowel habit
Precautions:
1. Strict aseptic technique should be observed throughout the procedure
2. Dressing should not be done during mealtime (it will destroy patients appetite)
3. Never rub stoma (opening)
4. Never use cotton
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Procedure |
Key Points |
| 1. Prepare equipment and carry to bedside | To save time and motion |
| 2. Screen bed and replace sheet with blanket | To insure privacy |
| 3. Explain procedure to patient | To gain cooperation |
| 4. Place patient on his back in semi-fowler’s position | To make him comfortable and to facilitate drainage |
| 5. Open binder and remove dressings with forceps and place in kidney basin | |
| 6. Place rubber sheet cover with one sterile towel at side of patient nearest colostomy opening | |
| 7. Put on rubber gloves | Complete aseptic technique |
| 8. Hang irrigator can stand not more than 18 inches above the wound. Expel air from tubing | |
| 9. Lubricate tube and insert catheter into proximal (upper) loop not more than 7 inches | To facilitate insertion of the catheter |
| 10. Turn patient towards affected site. Place emesis basin under the colostomy | To empty loop |
| 11. Wipe off catheter, lubricate it and insert into distal (lower) loop | |
| 12. Fill irrigator can with the solution and allow it to run smoothly | |
| 13. If patient complains of severe cramping and no solution is expelled through rectum, withdraw tube and allow solution to return through colostomy opening | |
| 14. Clean stoma and surrounding area with soap and water, dry and apply Benzoin | To prevent irritation |
After Care:
Patient
1. Dress the colostomy
2. Replace the binder
Equipment
1. Wrap soiled dressing
2. Wash instruments and equipment and sterilize
3. Reset tray and cover
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