Problem 6 - Clinical Nursing Skills and Techniques

Question

The intestinal opening surgically created in the abdomen for a colostomy, ileostomy, orurostomy is called an ______________.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The intestinal opening is called an 'ostomy.'

Step 1: Understanding Terminal Suffix

The suffix stomy comes from the Greek word "stoma," which means mouth or opening. This suffix is commonly used in medical terms to denote a surgically created opening that connects an internal organ to the surface of the body.

Step 2: Identify the Prefix

In this question, there are three surgical procedures listed: colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy. Each prefix refers to a different part of the body. 'Colo-' relates to the colon, 'ileo-' refers to the ileum (part of the small intestine), and 'uro-' pertains to urine/excretion systems.

Step 3: Combine Prefix with Suffix

Each surgical procedure in the exercise involves the creation of an external opening, and this is reflected in the suffix '-stomy.' The term we are looking for needs to combine a suffix meaning 'opening' with the three body parts mentioned ('ileo,' 'colo,' 'uro'). In medical terminology, an intestinal opening created artificially is collectively known as an 'ostomy' which covers these specific terms.

Key Concepts

Colostomy

A colostomy is a surgical procedure where an opening is made in the abdominal wall, allowing part of the colon to be diverted through this new opening. This procedure results in an ostomy, which enables waste to be collected in a colostomy bag.
The main reasons for conducting a colostomy can include:

• Cancer in the colon
• Diverticulitis
• Traumatic injury to the bowel
• Congenital defects

These surgeries can be temporary or permanent, depending on the underlying condition being treated. Temporary colostomies may be used to allow the colon to heal after surgery or injury, while permanent colostomies are often required when the lower part of the colon cannot remain functional.

Ileostomy

An ileostomy involves creating an opening in the abdominal wall from the ileum, which is the last part of the small intestine. Similar to a colostomy, waste exits the body through this new opening and is collected in a specially designed bag.
Ileostomies are often performed because of conditions such as:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (for instance, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
• Familial adenomatous polyposis
• Severe bowel damage

Unlike colostomies, ileostomies often require the patient to take steps to manage output consistency because the waste is more liquid. Diet and medication adjustments might be necessary, making patient education crucial for effective stoma management.

Urostomy

Urostomy is a type of ostomy surgery used to divert urine away from the bladder when it's been removed or bypassed. During this procedure, the surgeon creates an opening in the abdomen using a section of the intestine to form a conduit for urine. The urine then passes directly from the kidneys through this conduit into an external pouch.
Urostomies are often required due to:

• Bladder cancer
• Neurogenic bladder
• Severe urinary incontinence
• Congenital defects in the bladder

Managing a urostomy involves focusing on effective pouch changes, skin care around the stoma, and sometimes, additional options like using a catheter inserted directly into a continent urostomy.

Medical Terminology

Understanding medical terminology is crucial when dealing with surgeries like ostomies. These terms often have Greek or Latin roots which describe aspects of anatomy, disease, or procedures. The suffix '-stomy' is derived from the Greek 'stoma', meaning opening or mouth, and is used universally in medical contexts to indicate a surgical opening is made.
Breaking down terms like "colostomy", "ileostomy", and "urostomy" involves understanding their prefixes, which specify the part of the body involved. This knowledge is not only beneficial for doctors but also empowers patients to grasp the nature of their conditions and procedures.

Surgical Procedures

Ostomy surgeries, whether they are colostomies, ileostomies, or urostomies, are complex medical procedures involving hospitalization, anesthesia, and recovery time. These surgeries adapt bodily functions for patients whose natural processes can no longer occur normally due to medical conditions.
Successful surgical outcomes require thorough preoperative planning and excellent postoperative care. Steps typically involve:

• Preoperative assessments, like imaging tests or lab evaluations
• Detailed surgical planning tailored to patient needs
• Post-surgical monitoring and rehabilitation, including stoma care guidance
• Ongoing follow-up appointments

Each patient’s journey is unique, so healthcare professionals work closely with them to ensure a comfortable adaptation to life post-surgery.