Question:
My mother had to get an ostomy about six months ago. She also has a hernia on top of the stoma, which is slightly retracted. We have tried many different appliances, but she still experiences regular blowouts at the flange.
Where can we go for help? The surgeon has said that surgery is not an option due to the risks associated with her age (93). This is not the way to live—my mom is afraid to leave home in case she has a blowout. She still drives, cooks, and cleans for herself, but this issue is limiting her independence. I need some direction. What can we do?
Answer:
I’m sorry to hear about the challenges your mother is facing with her ostomy care. It sounds like you have explored several pouching options, but they haven’t yet improved her quality of life. I understand how frustrating and discouraging this must be.
There are several local resources in Guelph that may be able to help. A Nurse Specialized in Wounds, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC) can provide expert guidance on managing her specific issues and improving her quality of life. You can use the Find a NSWOC tool to locate a nurse near you:
- Find a NSWOC Nurse: https://membersnswoc.ca/find.phtml
Additionally, you may contact Ontario Health at Home to request a NSWOC assessment for your mother. They may be able to recommend tailored solutions for her ostomy care.
You may also find support through local ostomy chapters, which can connect you with additional resources, including private NSWOC services. A nearby chapter that may be helpful is the Kitchener Ostomy Group:
- Kitchener Ostomy Chapter: https://www.ostomycanada.ca/blog/chapters-category/ontario/page/2/
I hope these suggestions help you find the right support for your mother. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.
Answered by:
Tom Chang
Nurse Specialized in Wounds, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC)
The post Finding Support for Ostomy Management with a Hernia first appeared on Ostomy Canada Society.