COLOSTOMY CARE (Draining Colostomy Bag)

PROCEDURE REMARKS
ASSESSMENT
1. Determine the need to empty the colostomy bag. Empty the pouch
when it is one third to one half full of stool or gas.

PLANNING
1. Review features of the appliance and gather the needed materials.

Equipment
• Clean gloves, Bedpan, Waterproof pad
• Tissue or gauze pad

IMPLEMENTATION
1. Prior to performing the procedure, introduce self and verify the client’s
identity using agency protocol. Explain to the client what you are going
to do, why it is necessary, and how he or she can participate.
2. Perform hand hygiene and observe other appropriate infection
prevention procedures.
3. Apply clean gloves.
4. Provide for client privacy preferably in the bathroom, where clients can
learn to deal with the ostomy as they would at home.
5. Assist the client to a comfortable sitting or lying position in bed or
preferably a sitting or standing position in the bathroom.
6. Place the bedpan over a waterproof pad. Hold the pouch outlet over a
bedpan or toilet. Lift the lower edge up.
7. Unclamp or unseal the pouch.
8. Drain the pouch. Loosen feces from sides by moving fingers down the
pouch.
9. Clean the inside of the tail of the pouch with a tissue or a premoistened
towelette.
10. Apply the clamp or seal the pouch.
11. Dispose of used supplies.
12. Remove and discard gloves.
13. Perform hand hygiene.
14. Document the amount, consistency, and color of stool.

EVALUATION
• Relate findings to previous data if available.