Question

The nurse is caring for a pt 24 hours post-procedure for a Hemi-colectomy with a temporary colostomy placement. The nurse assesses the pt's stoma, which is dry & dark blue. What action should the nurse take based on this finding?

Answer 1

If a nurse assesses a patient's dry and dark blue stoma post-Hemi-colectomy with temporary colostomy placement, it could indicate ischemia. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider and closely monitor the patient for signs of infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

If the nurse assesses a patient's stoma as dry and dark blue 24 hours post-procedure for a Hemi-colectomy with a temporary colostomy placement, this finding could indicate ischemia, which is inadequate blood supply to the tissues. Ischemia can lead to tissue death. Therefore, the nurse should take immediate action and notify the healthcare provider.

The healthcare provider may need to assess the patient and determine whether the colostomy needs to be rewound or repositioned to restore proper blood flow. If necessary, a surgical revision may be required to address the ischemia and prevent further complications.

It is important for the nurse to monitor the patient closely for any signs of infection, such as fever, increased pain, or foul-smelling drainage. Infection can further compromise blood flow and worsen the condition.