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Caring For Your UrostomyPreparation:Before undergoing a urostomy, the patient learns where on the abdomen the stoma will be created, what type of collection device (if any) will be worn, and what changes in appearance the operation may cause. Nurses encourage the patient preparing to undergo an incontinent urostomy to become familiar with the collection device that will be worn after the operation. They may arrange to have someone who has already had the operation (ostomate) reassure the patient preparing for either an incontinent or continent procedure and answer questions about life after the surgery. Preoperative Restrictions: The patient may be told not to eat certain foods before surgery and must fast for eight hours and have a cleansing enema before the operation. Fluid and antibiotics may be given to a patient who is frail.Aftercare:A patient who has undergone an incontinent diversion wears a collection device that is odor-free, not visible under clothing, disposable or reusable, and available at drug stores or medical supply houses or through the mail. To prevent urine leakage, infection, skin irritation, and odor, the patient should re-measure the stoma and make any necessary adjustments in the size of the flat sponge-like patch that covers and protects it. This should be done during the first few months after the operation (when shrinkage occurs) or whenever gaining or losing weight. Measuring devices and instructions are included in every box of collection pouches. Some doctors recommend taking Vitamin C to prevent infection- and odor-causing bacteria from accumulating in the urine. Other recommendations include drinking eight to 10 glasses of water a day to reduce the likelihood of kidney infection.
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