(3)
Increase or decrease the flow rate by raising or lowering the syringe.
(4) Depending upon the solution's consistency, and the amount, feeding
may take 10 to 20 minutes.
l. After administering the ordered amount of feeding solution, flush the tube with
30 ml of water to clear the feeding solution residue.
m. Clamp or plug the tube to prevent leakage.
n. Instruct patient to remain in a sitting position for 30 minutes to enhance
normal digestive process.
o. Record feeding on intake and output record. Record procedure and the
patient's tolerance in the nursing notes.
p. Check back with the patient. He should not feel overly full or nauseated.
Report these symptoms to the professional nurse at once. Gastric distress may require
adjustment of feeding schedule.
1-43. COLOSTOMY
a. A colostomy is a surgically created, artificial opening (stoma) into the colon
through the abdomen. It may be temporary or permanent.
b. A temporary colostomy is normally made for diversion of fecal material. Fecal
diversion is utilized in order to rest a portion of the colon following intestinal surgery, in
preparation for further surgery, or in cases of severe inflammatory disease (such as
diverticulitis).
c. A permanent colostomy serves as an artificial anus for the remainder of the
patient's life. This procedure is done in conjunction with the removal of the lower bowel
and rectum. Although there is no sphincter muscle control at the stoma, bowel
movements may be controlled by a daily routine that encompasses diet, physical
activity, and colostomy irrigation's. Consistency of the bowel movements generally
depends upon the location of the colostomy (see figure 1-5), but can be manipulated by
the patient's choice of diet.
d. Whether temporary or permanent, a colostomy can be very distressing to the
patient. Patients with colostomies require encouragement, understanding, and
assistance in overcoming the negative emotions associated with a colostomy, and in
learning independence and self-sufficiency in living with a colostomy.
e. Colostomy "training" should begin as soon as possible, with the permission of
the physician, after surgery. The ease and skill with which the nursing personnel care
for the patient with a colostomy are important in helping the patient physically and
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