(2) If desired, the patient may remove the appliance, shower, or bathe, and
then apply a clean appliance.
e. The stoma should be covered to absorb drainage and prevent excoriation of
the peristomal skin while changing appliances.
(1)
A gauze dressing may be used to cover the stoma.
(2)
A small vaginal tampon may be gently inserted into the stoma.
1-48. DIETARY CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE PATIENT WITH AN ILEOSTOMY
a. Most physicians do not recommend dietary restrictions once the patient has
recovered from surgery and is released from the hospital. However, foods that cause
discomfort, gas, or diarrhea should be omitted.
b. Hard to digest foods should be avoided if they cause discomfort. Examples
are celery, popcorn, berries, and high-fiber foods.
c. Odor-causing foods include cabbage, onions, fish, and eggs. These foods
should be tested individually to determine if they can be tolerated.
d. Spinach, parsley, yogurt, and buttermilk act as deodorizers on the intestinal
tract.
e. All foods ingested will normally pass through the ileostomy within 4-6 hours.
Section VI. GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS
1-49. GASTRITIS/GASTROENTERITIS
a. Acute gastritis is the irritation and inflammation of the stomach's mucous
lining. Gastritis may be caused by a chemical, thermal, or bacterial insult. For example,
drugs such as alcohol, aspirin, and chemotherapeutic agents may cause an attack of
gastritis. Likewise, hot, spicy, rough, or contaminated foods may bring about an attack.
Management involves symptomatic treatment measures after removal of the causative
agent.
b. Gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is generally
caused by bacteria and viruses. Other causes include parasites, food allergens, drug
reactions to antibiotics, and ingestion of toxic plants. Treatment is the same as for
gastritis, with the addition of anti-microbial drugs for severe cases.
c. Signs and symptoms of both include pain, cramping, belching, nausea, and
vomiting. Severe cases may include hematemesis. Diarrhea may occur with
gastroenteritis.
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