Nursing measures for artificial stoma in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer patients, due to the lower position of the tumor, some cannot keep the anus, and need to have a stoma and build an artificial anus. This brings a lot of inconvenience to colorectal cancer patients and their families. Many colorectal cancer patients have lost the courage to participate in social activities, and some have even lost confidence in life. However, some colorectal cancer patients have overcome the disease and become strong people in life through careful care and persistent exercise. The following are some precautions for colorectal cancer patients' stoma care after surgery:

① The colostomy is opened 48-72 hours after surgery. The surgical incision can be protected with vaseline gauze within 1 week after surgery to prevent incision infection.

② After the stoma is opened, an artificial anal bag is immediately fitted. Instruct the patient to lie on the side of the artificial anus opening as much as possible to prevent feces from overflowing, and keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. If the bedding is contaminated, it should be changed in time. Instruct the patient to control the stoma and develop the habit of regular bowel movements. If it can be effectively controlled, it will be beneficial for postoperative activities. If the control is good, the fistula can be covered with a layer of soft cotton pad, and then compressed and fixed with an elastic belt to open the bowel movement on time.

③ Keep the area around the prosthesis clean and dry. After the incision heals, it can be washed with warm water to prevent local skin redness, swelling or erosion.

④ The artificial anal bag should be kept clean, emptied and washed frequently. After each emptying, it can be rinsed with soapy water and dried for later use. A disposable artificial anal bag can also be used and replaced in time.

⑤ Carry out regular bowel movement training to develop the habit of regular bowel movement. You can start by drinking warm Sophora japonica honey water on an empty stomach every morning to stimulate intestinal peristalsis, stimulate bowel movements, and gradually form a regular pattern. If the stool is dry, a small amount of sodium chloride injection can be injected into the anus to stimulate bowel movements and soften fecal masses.

⑥ Anal dilation care: One week after the artificial anus is opened, anal dilation should be started to relax the perianal muscles, keep the artificial anus unobstructed, and avoid anal stenosis caused by abdominal muscle contraction and intestinal retraction, which causes difficulty in defecation. The method is: wear a glove and insert the index finger into the anus about 4cm, continue for 1-2 minutes, once a day. While dilating the anus, instruct the patient to do the exhalation action to reduce abdominal pressure.