The nurse is caring for the stoma of a client who has a colostomy. Whi

The nurse is caring for the stoma of a client who has a colostomy. Which action is the most appropriate?

1. Apply pressure over the stoma.
2. Clean the stoma and pat dry.
3. Dilate the stoma.
4. Scrub the stoma.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Applying pressure over the stoma may damage the stoma.
Rationale 2: Stoma care includes cleaning the area and patting dry.
Rationale 3: A physician’s order is needed if the stoma is to be dilated. Dilating is not routine.
Rationale 4: Scrubbing would cause the stoma to bleed because the area is very vascular.