A nurse is reinforcing teaching with another nurse about how to change an ostomy appliance for a client who has a sigmoid colostomy.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Create an opening on the skin barrier that is 1.27 cm (0.5 in) larger than the client's stoma
Use a moisturizing soap to clean the skin around the client's stoma
Empty the client's ostomy pouch before removing the skin barrier
Change the client's ostomy appliance 1 hr after breakfast
Correct Answer : C
A. Create an opening on the skin barrier that is 1.27 cm (0.5 in) larger than the client's stoma. The opening on the skin barrier should be cut to fit closely around the stoma, approximately 0.3-0.6 cm (1/8 to 1/4 inch) larger than the stoma size. A larger opening (like 0.5 inches) could expose too much surrounding skin, increasing the risk of skin irritation from contact with the stoma's effluent.
B. Use a moisturizing soap to clean the skin around the client's stoma. Moisturizing soaps should be avoided because they can leave a residue on the skin, which may interfere with the adhesion of the ostomy appliance. The skin around the stoma should be cleaned with mild soap and water, or water alone, and then dried thoroughly before applying the new appliance.
C. Empty the client's ostomy pouch before removing the skin barrier. Emptying the ostomy pouch before removing the skin barrier is a practical step to reduce spillage of stool during the appliance change, making the process cleaner and easier to manage. It also minimizes the risk of contamination of the surrounding area or wound.
D. Change the client's ostomy appliance 1 hour after breakfast. Ostomy appliances are best changed when the bowel is least active, which is usually before a meal or several hours after eating. Changing the appliance shortly after a meal, such as 1 hour after breakfast, may result in more stoma output, making it harder to manage the appliance change.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Bed rest is often recommended for clients with DVT to reduce the risk of the clot dislodging and causing a pulmonary embolism. By minimizing movement and keeping the leg elevated, the nurse can help prevent further complications.
The other options listed are incorrect:
- Massage the affected extremity every 4 hours: Massaging the affected extremity can dislodge the clot, increasing the risk of a pulmonary embolism. It is contraindicated and should not be performed in clients with DVT.
- Apply an ice pack to the affected extremity for 20 minutes every 2 hours: While applying cold compresses or ice packs may be useful in some situations to reduce swelling or pain, it is not recommended for clients with DVT. Heat application or cold application should be avoided because they can promote blood circulation and potentially dislodge the clot.
- Administer aspirin for pain: Aspirin is not typically used for pain management in DVT. Anticoagulant therapy is the primary treatment for DVT, and specific anticoagulant medications are prescribed to prevent further clot formation and reduce the risk of complications.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A.This is incorrect because suction should not be applied during the insertion of the catheter. Suctioning should only be applied while withdrawing the catheter to avoid causing trauma to the mucosa.
B. Suctioning should generally be performed for no longer than 10 seconds at a time to minimize the risk of complications such as hypoxia.
C.This response is correct because waiting approximately 1 minute between suctioning attempts allows the client time to recover and reoxygenate. This interval helps prevent hypoxia and mucosal damage, which are important considerations during the suctioning process.
D.In adults insert catheter approximately 16 cm (6.5 inches); in older children, 8– 12 cm (3–5 inches); in infants and young children, 4–7.5 cm (1.5–3 inches). Rule of thumb is to insert catheter distance from tip of nose (or mouth) to angle of mandible.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
