Questions you might want to ask

Stoma placement may also be discussed in your pre-surgery visit. If your surgeon does not discuss stoma placement with you, we encourage you to ask about it before surgery.

Correct stoma placement is important for your future comfort and ability to take care of your stoma. To manage pouch changes as easily and independently as possible, you will want to make sure the stoma is put on a smooth skin surface and that you can easily see and reach the stoma.¹

Here are common questions you may choose to ask your healthcare professional while you are in the hospital:

• How soon will I be able to eat and drink?
• How long will I be in the hospital?
• What do I do if I am in pain?
• Does everyone with a stoma need to use a pouch?
• Who will show me how to use my equipment?
• Where do I get supplies?

After your surgery, your ostomy nurse will talk to you about the operation, help you understand what has happened to your body, and teach you how to manage your new stoma as you recover in the hospital and transition to homecare. Depending on your needs, you may also get referrals to other specialists or clinics for more help.

It is important to remember that everyone is different, and we all adapt to change in different ways. The support you can expect to receive from your nurse will always be geared toward your individual needs. There are many people like you who have had the same operation, and your doctors and nurses are there to listen and help.

1. Pontieri-Lewis V. Basics of Ostomy Care. Medsurg Nursing. 2006. Vol 15. P199-202.