How do I insert a red rubber catheter into a colostomy?

From the Guidelines

To place a red rubber catheter in a colostomy, gather supplies, explain the procedure to the patient, and gently insert the lubricated catheter into the stoma, advancing it slowly 6-8 inches into the bowel. When performing this procedure, it is essential to consider the type of colostomy and its typical characteristics, as outlined in the study by 1, which discusses the management of ostomies. The study notes that most colostomies are constructed from the sigmoid, descending, or transverse colon, and the output from a colostomy is typically formed with bowel movements commonly occurring once daily. To begin the procedure:

• Gather necessary supplies, including a red rubber catheter (typically 22-28 French), water-soluble lubricant, clean gloves, irrigation solution (usually normal saline), a collection basin, and towels for protection.
• Explain the procedure to the patient and ensure privacy.
• Put on clean gloves and gently examine the stoma to assess its direction and patency.
• Apply water-soluble lubricant to the tip of the catheter.
• Gently insert the lubricated catheter into the stoma, advancing it slowly 6-8 inches into the bowel.
• If resistance is met, do not force the catheter; instead, try repositioning it slightly or using a smaller size. The goal of this procedure is to relieve obstruction, clean the bowel, or manage output from the colostomy by accessing the lumen of the large intestine through the surgically created opening in the abdominal wall, as described in the context of colostomy management by 1. Key considerations during the procedure include:
• Using the correct size of catheter to avoid causing damage to the stoma or surrounding tissue.
• Applying gentle and steady pressure when inserting the catheter to avoid causing discomfort or trauma to the patient.
• Monitoring the patient's response to the procedure and adjusting as needed to ensure their comfort and safety.

From the Research

Placing a Red Rubber Catheter in a Colostomy

There are no research papers that directly address the procedure of placing a red rubber catheter in a colostomy. However, the following information may be relevant:

• Colostomy irrigation is a procedure that allows patients to achieve a certain degree of bowel control, and a period free of stoma effluent 2.
• The procedure involves inserting a catheter into the stoma to introduce water into the bowel, which helps to flush out stool and gas 2, 3.
• WOC nurses play a crucial role in teaching patients about colostomy irrigation and helping them to perform the procedure safely and effectively 4, 5.
• The use of a red rubber catheter is not specifically mentioned in the available studies, but it is possible that it may be used as part of the colostomy irrigation procedure.

Key Considerations

When placing a catheter in a colostomy, the following considerations may be important:

• Ensuring the catheter is inserted correctly and safely to avoid causing damage to the stoma or surrounding tissue.
• Using the correct size and type of catheter for the individual patient's needs.
• Providing adequate instruction and support to the patient to help them perform the procedure independently.
• Monitoring the patient's progress and adjusting the procedure as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.

Available Information

While there is no direct information available on placing a red rubber catheter in a colostomy, the following studies may provide some relevant context:

• 4 discusses the positive and negative aspects of colostomy irrigation from a patient and WOC nurse perspective.
• 2 describes the implementation of a structured protocol-led follow-up for colostomy irrigation.
• 3 identifies issues that WOC nurses find most important related to colostomy irrigation.
• 5 examines the current knowledge and practice of WOC nurses on colostomy irrigation.
• 6 provides a position statement on preoperative stoma site marking for patients undergoing colostomy or ileostomy surgery.