ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ReadingHard
A patient is given instructions for managing their new colostomy: 'Clean the peristomal skin with warm water and mild soap, then pat dry thoroughly. Apply a skin barrier and ensure it fits snugly around the stoma. Empty the pouch when it is one-third to one-half full. Change the entire pouching system every 3-7 days, or sooner if leakage occurs.' What is the primary goal of emptying the pouch when it is one-third to one-half full?
- ATo ensure the patient practices proper hygiene frequently.
- BTo allow for accurate measurement of output for dietary tracking.
- CTo prevent odor buildup in the pouch.
- DTo minimize the weight of the pouch and prevent skin irritation.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. To minimize the weight of the pouch and prevent skin irritation.
An overfilled pouch becomes heavy, pulling on the skin barrier and potentially leading to leakage, skin irritation, or detachment. Emptying it when one-third to one-half full minimizes this weight and associated risks.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Frequent emptying does involve hygiene, but the specific volume guideline is directly tied to the physical integrity of the pouching system and skin health.
- B. While output measurement is important, it can be done at any fill level; the 'one-third to one-half' rule is not primarily about measurement accuracy.
- C. While emptying helps with odor, the primary reason for the specific 'one-third to one-half full' guideline is weight management and preventing skin damage.
Colostomy Pouch Management
Colostomy pouch management involves regular emptying of the pouch when it reaches one-third to one-half full to prevent the pouch from becoming too heavy, which can cause it to pull away from the skin, leading to leakage, skin irritation, and potential infection.
- Prevents excessive weight on the skin barrier.
- Reduces risk of leakage and skin irritation.
- Maintains a secure seal around the stoma.
- Promotes comfort and prevents accidental detachment.
Memory trick: Half full is happy, heavy is leaky and crappy.