Patient-centred stoma care support: colostomy patients

This article follows up on a previously published article exploring the specific needs of ileostomy patients (Marinova and Marinova, 2024b). It explores in detail the colostomy patient-specific domain that healthcare professionals must be educated on to ensure patient care is delivered appropriately. The next article in the series will explore the urostomy personalised stratified follow-up pathways.

A stoma is a surgically created opening in the abdomen that allows for the diversion of faeces or urine outside the body (Marinova et al, 2021). Stomas come in different types, with the three main types being ileostomy, colostomy and urostomy, which can be temporary or permanent. All stoma patients need life-long support with their stoma care, and colostomy patients have unique needs that necessitate specialised care pathways for optimal outcomes. Many areas in the UK provide stoma patient pathways to ensure that support is offered to these patients (Davenport, 2014; Bowles et al, 2022; Marinova and Marinova, 2023). However, these pathways are not universal and may vary depending on the area. Furthermore, these are usually generic and not patient-specific, as they do not define the specific needs of patients based on the type of stoma they have—colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy. Therefore, it is essential to recognise that these needs differ based on the stoma's type and configuration, and customising these pathways for colostomy patients can help prevent complications, reduce hospital readmissions and improve quality of life. Community nurses and other healthcare professionals play a vital role in delivering individualised care to ostomates. Their involvement ensures that patients are well-prepared for life with a stoma and that their specific needs are met consistently. This multidisciplinary approach creates a comprehensive care environment, addressing the physical and emotional aspects of living with a colostomy.