A client who has been caring for an ostomy on the left side of the abdomen for several years is admitted to the hospital. Which type of stool can the nurse expect?

A. Explain the possible surgical procedures available to treat this disorder: Clients with IBD, particularly ulcerative colitis, may require surgical interventions such as colectomy or ileostomy if medical management fails. Providing information about surgical options helps clients make informed decisions.

B. Discuss coping skills to assist with adaptation to required lifestyle modifications: IBD significantly affects daily life, including dietary changes, medication adherence, and emotional well-being. Teaching coping strategies helps clients manage stress and improve quality of life.

C. Educate on possible medication side effects and when to notify the healthcare provider: Medications for IBD (e.g., corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, biologics) have side effects such as increased infection risk, osteoporosis, and GI disturbances. Patients should be informed about when to seek medical attention.

D. Provide information on decreasing protein intake to reduce ammonia levels: This advice is more relevant to liver disease, such as cirrhosis, where protein restriction can help manage hepatic encephalopathy. In IBD, adequate protein intake is needed to prevent malnutrition.

E. Discuss the risks of fluid volume overload and methods to restrict fluid intake: Clients with IBD are at risk for dehydration due to diarrhea and malabsorption. Increasing fluid intake, rather than restricting it, is often necessary.

A. "The ileostomy is temporary and can be reversed after 3-4 months.": A total colectomy with ileostomy is typically permanent unless the client is undergoing a two-stage procedure to create a J-pouch.

B. "This procedure will slow down the number of diarrhea stools you pass per rectum.": A total colectomy removes the colon, so stool will no longer pass per rectum. Instead, stool is collected in an external ileostomy bag.

C. "Stool produced by the ileostomy will be firm and require manual removal to drain.": Stool from an ileostomy is liquid to semi-formed due to the lack of water absorption. It does not require manual removal.

D. "This procedure is curative as it removes the part of the bowel affected by the disease.": Ulcerative colitis only affects the colon and rectum. A total colectomy removes the diseased portion, effectively curing the condition.