Care and management of a stoma: maintaining peristomal skin health.
It is estimated that around one in 500 people in the UK are living with a stoma, with approximately 21 000 operations that result in stoma formation being performed each year ( Colostomy Association, 2016 ). These people face a unique set of challenges in maintaining the integrity of their peristomal skin. This article explores the normal structure and function of skin and how the care and management of a stoma presents challenges for maintaining peristomal skin health. Particular focus is paid to the incidence of skin problems for those living with a stoma, whether it is temporary or permanent, and the factors that contribute to skin breakdown in this population. Wider factors such as the central role of the clinical nurse specialist and the impact of product usage on positive outcomes and health economics are also considered.
Nurse Specialist, Stoma Care, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
Anna
A
Boyles
Lead Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Wellway Medical Group, Independent Specialist Wound Care.
Sharon
S
Hunt
D000269:Adhesives / Q000009:adverse effects; D019468:Disease Management; D006801:Humans; D009720:Nurse Clinicians; D010030:Ostomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000451:nursing*; D011788:Quality of Life; D017592:Skin Care / Q000451:nursing*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing*; D012879:Skin Physiological Phenomena
D000269:Adhesives
Anatomy and physiology; MARSI; Outcomes; Quality of life; Skin; Skin breakdown; Stoma care