Practice Recommendations

RECOMMENDATION

STRENGTH OF THE RECOMMENDATION

1

The expert panel suggests that health providers implement the following interventions to prevent parastomal hernias for persons who anticipate or live with an ostomy:

• Conduct a risk factor assessment related to body mass index and waist circumference.
• Provide expert advice on weight management, as needed.
• Perform stoma site marking preoperatively.
• Provide postoperative education related to:

• abstinence from heavy lifting postoperatively.
• consideration of lightweight support garments.
• abdominal exercises beginning within three months of surgery.

Conditional

2

In order to guide person-centred care, the expert panel recommends that health providers assess quality of life in persons who anticipate or live with an ostomy. Specific areas of focus should include the following:

• Psychological distress (anxiety and depression).
• Self-identity (sexuality and body image).

Strong