Self-care for patients with colon cancer after colostomy surgery

People with colon cancer should learn to take care of themselves after colostomy surgery.

It is better to lie on the healthy side: The colostomy is usually opened 2 to 3 days after the operation. After opening, it is better to lie on the healthy side. Plastic film can be used to separate the abdominal wall incision from the stoma to prevent the flowing out thin feces from contaminating the abdominal wall incision and causing incision infection.

Skin care around the stoma: Patients should learn to use the stoma bag correctly and keep the skin around the stoma clean and dry. First clean the skin around the stoma with a neutral soap solution, then apply zinc oxide ointment to prevent dermatitis and skin erosion, and pay attention to observe whether the skin around the stoma is red, swollen, or ulcerated.

Care when replacing ostomy bags: When the excrement in the ostomy bag reaches 1/3, it needs to be replaced in time. In addition to using disposable ostomy bags, 3 to 4 ostomy bags can be prepared for replacement. The replaced ostomy bags can be washed with neutral detergent and clean water, wiped dry, and air-dried for later use.

Pay attention to food hygiene: Colon cancer patients should pay special attention to food hygiene after colostomy surgery, avoid eating unclean food, and avoid eating food that is too hot, too cold, or spicy to avoid diarrhea. Eat at regular times and quantitatively, avoid overeating, and eat tofu, fish, and eggs, plus vegetable soup and fruit juice to keep bowel movements smooth. Certain foods, such as onions, garlic, dried beans, and carbonated drinks, increase flatulence and should be avoided when socializing.