Urostomy Care: A Guide for Home Care Clinicians.

This article focuses on the care and management of patients living with a urostomy. Improved surgical techniques and shortened hospital stays result in more patients receiving home care in the immediate postoperative period after surgical creation of a urostomy. It is important that home care clinicians have the knowledge and skills to manage the care of patients with a urostomy from hospital discharge to self-care. This article reviews the anatomy and physiology of the urinary tract, the formation of a stoma, and indications for the creation of a urostomy. Stent management, peristomal skin care, stomal complications as well as pouching options and accessories are discussed. Knowledge of care of patients with a urostomy can reduce the risk of complications and hospital readmissions, and assist patients to adjust to life with a urostomy.