Why can stoma care be difficult?

Jennie Burch

15th November 2008

Aims and objectives

To highlight some of the areas that make stoma care difficult

To discuss potential difficulties that may arise

Why is caring for ostomates difficult?

Sometimes it is not difficult

Personal issues

‘A bit close to home’

Ostomate not following advice

Upsetting situation

Ostomates unrealistic expectations

Complex situations

Tiredness

Issues related to the nurse

Considered too young to understand

Considered too old to understand

Busy

Lack of support

Overworked

Lack of knowledge

Lack of resources

Do we need support?

Clifton suspension bridge

Issues related to the ostomates

Social issues

Frustration

In denial

Mental health problems

Not listening

Learning disabilities

Not following advice

Culture

Aggressive