What does the term Colostomy/Ileostomy refer to?

The term Colostomy/Ileostomy refers to a surgical procedure where a portion of the intestine is removed, and an opening is created in the abdominal wall to allow waste to exit the body. This procedure is often necessitated due to various medical conditions such as cancer, diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disease, where normal bowel function is compromised.

In the procedures, a colostomy refers to the formation of an opening (stoma) from the colon to the outside of the abdomen, while an ileostomy involves the removal of the ileum, the last part of the small intestine. Both procedures significantly alter the normal digestive process by bypassing the rectum, thus necessitating a new way for the body to expel waste.

Understanding this concept is essential for those working in a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly because management of residents who have undergone such procedures requires knowledge of stoma care, diet modifications, and potential complications related to their condition. This insight is vital to providing adequate care and support to residents with these surgical alterations.