Being connected with a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) is a valuable resource for anyone with an ostomy. NSWOCs can provide consultation regarding your ileostomy, colostomy, or urostomy, whether you recently had surgery or have had an ostomy for many years. There are many reasons to make an appointment with a NSWOC.
When ostomy surgery is planned, you should see a NSWOC 1-3 weeks prior to surgery. At this time, the function of a stoma, living with an ostomy, and supplies will be discussed. Also, the NSWOC will make a mark on your abdomen as a recommendation to the surgeon for where to place the stoma. During your hospital stay, you will receive written education materials and hands-on teaching from the in-hospital NSWOC or the nurses on the ward about basic ostomy care. It is very common to have more questions once you are home and further along in your recovery. You should see a NSWOC in the community 2 weeks and 8 weeks after surgery. They will provide specialized assessment of your stoma and the surrounding skin, discuss products and answer your questions. Some people are seen more frequently if needed, while establishing a reliable pouching system.
Other reasons to make an appointment include issues with leaking (e.g. changing your pouch daily instead of 2-3 times per week), skin concerns (red, raw, very itchy), changes in stoma shape or size, hernias around the stoma, and lifestyle concerns (e.g. recreational activities, travel, diet, sleep, intimacy). There are several large ostomy brands, all with a large variety of product choices. NSWOCs can help you narrow down and navigate what type of pouching system will work best with your type of ostomy, body type, lifestyle, and preferences. An annual checkup is also recommended for all individuals with an ostomy. Appointments with a NSWOC are provided free-of-charge to clients purchasing supplies at Nightingale Medical Supplies, or for a fee, if your supplies are purchased elsewhere.
During this time, we have stopped in-store consultations with our NSWOCs due to the COVID-19 crisis. In an effort to provide you with clinical guidance and support we are offering telephone consultations with a NSWOC. We are available to assist you if you are experiencing challenges such as leakage or skin breakdown or even if you just have a few questions. If you would like to speak with an NSWOC please contact your preferred Nightingale location to book an appointment. If you have information or photos you would like to share with the NSWOC before your telephone consultation please email: NSWOC@nightingalemedical.ca
