A Total Proctocolectomy with a Continent Ileostomy Is Performed for a Patient

question 26

Multiple Choice

A total proctocolectomy with a continent ileostomy is performed for a patient with ulcerative colitis.Postoperatively,a catheter is in place in the stoma,and irrigations are performed every 4 hours.The patient is very upset and tells the nurse that the stoma is ugly,and she does not think she can live with all the alterations in her body.What is the best response to the patient's remarks?

• A) Reassure the patient that the stoma will shrink,and she will get used to caring for the ileostomy.
• B) Consult with the patient and the surgeon to arrange a visitor from a local ostomy support group.
• C) Develop a detailed written plan for the patient,which includes all the information she will need to care for her ileostomy.
• D) Recognize that this is a difficult period for the patient,and avoid intervening until she has had time to adjust to her situation.

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Definitions:

Respiratory Acidosis

A condition occurring when the lungs cannot remove all of the carbon dioxide the body produces, causing body fluids, especially the blood, to become too acidic.

Expiratory Neurons

Neurons involved in the control of the muscles responsible for expelling air from the lungs.

Ventral Respiratory Group

A cluster of neurons in the medulla oblongata that plays a critical role in controlling breathing.

Inspiration

Inspiration refers to the process of taking air into the lungs, a vital component of respiration, driven by muscle contraction and negative pressure inside the chest.