Normal Stoma Function
- A consistency like porridge/paste
- Bag requires emptying every four to six hours
- Light brown in colour
If all above – carry on with normal diet
You should take note when:
- Bag requires emptying more frequently than four hourly
- Output is watery in consistency (for more than 12 hours)
What you should do:
- Increase fibre and starch intake eg. cereal, potatoes, bread, rice and root vegetables
- Reduce intake of juices, fruit and leafy vegetables
- Take loperamide (2mg) 30 to 60 mins before each meal to slow bowel function
- Monitor urine output and colour – reduced frequency and darker colour is a sign of dehydration
You should call for assistance from a Stoma Nurse or Doctor when:
- Watery stoma output for more than 24h
- Reduced urine output, dark urine, increased thirst or headaches (signs and symptoms of dehydration)
What can you do whilst waiting on advice?
- Keep hydrated – consider oral rehydration solution or similar solutions containing important electrolytes. NOT PLAIN WATER
- Reduce intake of tea/coffee/fizzy drinks (act as a further diuretic)
Further Assistance
Should you require assistance or advice, contact your stoma nurse at the hospital (0191 445 3152) or in the community.
For out of hours’ assistance, contact Ward 12: 0191 445 2012 / 5912 or Ward 27: 0191 445 3005 / 3044