The patient can return to an active and full life with an ostomy and may have an improved quality of life as the symptoms

The patient can return to an active and full life with an ostomy and may have an improved quality of life as the symptoms of the conditions requiring the ostomy are often eliminated. Make the patient aware of community resources available for assistance, such as home health care nurses, special clinics, wound ostomy and continence nurses, and ostomy support groups. Encourage the patient to seek follow-up health care on a regular basis. Patient education is essential for independence in self-care. As the patient assumes responsibility for self-care, teach the patient how to make the necessary observations, to be aware of indications of problems, and to recognize when to seek assistance. For these goals to be met, the patient and/or family member/caregiver needs to be able to do the following