Question

The nurse is caring for a patient who had a colostomy placed yesterday. The nurse should report which assessment finding immediately? a. Stoma is protruding from the abdomen. b. Stoma is flush with the skin. c. Stoma is purple. d. Stoma is moist.

Answer 1

The nurse should report immediately if the stoma is purple, as it may indicate inadequate blood supply and potential complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should report immediately if the stoma, which is the artificial opening created during a colostomy, is purple. A purple stoma indicates inadequate blood supply and could be a sign of ischemia or necrosis. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.

Learn more about Colostomy care