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Colostomy Irrigation

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By Paul Martin, BSN, R.N.

Experiencing a permanent colostomy can profoundly disrupt various facets of a patient’s daily life, impacting confidence, lifestyle, and relationships. Patients must acquire skills in stoma management and adapt to a revised routine of bowel function. With the help and guidance of a nurse, performing colostomy irrigation (CI) can promote peristalsis and facilitate bowel evacuation.

Table of Contents

What is Colostomy Irrigation?

Colostomy irrigation (CI) is a procedure that helps to regulate bowel movements by emptying the colon at a scheduled time. The process involves infusing water into the colon through the stoma. This stimulates the colon to empty. By repeating this process regularly (once a day or once every second day), CI can lead to minimal or no stool passage between irrigation sessions.

Indications

Colostomy irrigation is generally indicated for:

  • Patients with a permanent descending or sigmoid colostomy.
  • Individuals who have difficulty managing stool output with conventional methods (e.g., colostomy pouches).
  • Patients looking to establish a more predictable bowel regimen and reduce the frequency of appliance changes.

Contraindications

There are certain conditions where colostomy irrigation may not be recommended. These include:

  • Ongoing chemotherapy treatment. Chemotherapy can cause gastrointestinal side effects, making colostomy irrigation difficult or uncomfortable for patients undergoing treatment.
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS can result in unpredictable bowel movements and abdominal discomfort, which may not be effectively managed through colostomy irrigation.
  • Active Crohn’s disease. Crohn’s disease involves chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, which can lead to strictures, fistulas, and other complications that may make colostomy irrigation impractical or risky.
  • Active Diverticulitis. Inflammation or infection of diverticula (small pouches in the colon) can cause pain, bleeding, and bowel changes, making colostomy irrigation inappropriate during acute flare-ups.
  • Peristomal hernia. A hernia near the stoma can interfere with the effectiveness of colostomy irrigation and may require surgical correction before irrigation can be safely attempted.
  • Factors such as poor vision, poor manual dexterity, and altered mental alertness. These factors can hinder a patient’s ability to perform colostomy irrigation safely and effectively, increasing the likelihood of complications and making irrigation contraindicated in such cases.

Equipment

The following equipment is required for colostomy irrigation:

  • Irrigation set (including a water bag, tubing, and cone).
  • Irrigation sleeve (a long, drainable bag that fits over the stoma). It snaps onto the barrier.
  • Clamp or clip for the irrigation sleeve.
  • Water soluble lubricant (water-soluble).
  • Lukewarm water (usually 500 to 1,000 mL warm tap water, 100°F to 105°F [37.8°C to 40.6°C])
  • A hook or stand to hang the water bag.
  • Towels or wipes for cleaning the area.
  • A clean colostomy bag or stoma cap for post-irrigation.
  • Plastic bag for disposal

Nursing Care Plans

Main Article: 10 Ileostomy & Colostomy Nursing Care Plans

Procedure

Colostomy irrigation is a procedure that involves flushing the colon through the colostomy stoma with water to regulate bowel movements. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of the process:

1. Prepare the equipment. Place the stand or pole near the location of the procedure.
Gather all necessary equipment, including an irrigation sleeve or bag, irrigation cone or stoma cap, warm water (room temperature to slightly warm), irrigation solution if prescribed (usually saline), lubricant, and a towel or absorbent pad.

2. Let the patient sit or stand near a toilet or a drainage area.
Makes it easier to manage the outflow of water and stool during irrigation.

3. With two-piece systems, attach the tubing to the container and secure it in place. Then, close the clamp on the tubing. Pour the prescribed amount of lukewarm water into the irrigation bag and hang it at shoulder height.
Lukewarm water prevents discomfort, and the height ensures a gentle, controlled flow of water.

4. Remove the colostomy pouch from the barrier. Fit the irrigation sleeve over the stoma and secure it in place. Place the end of the sleeve in the toilet, bedpan, or other disposal unit.
Directs the irrigating water and stool into the toilet, preventing spills and maintaining hygiene.

5. Apply a water-soluble lubricant to the tip of the irrigation cone.
Facilitates easy and gentle insertion of the cone into the stoma, minimizing discomfort and injury risk.

6. Prime the tube by allowing a small amount of water to flow through the tube and cone to eliminate air.
Prevents air from entering the bowel, which can cause discomfort and bloating.

7. Gently insert the lubricated cone into the stoma, ensuring it is secure but not forced.
Ensures a proper seal to prevent water leakage and directs the water into the bowel effectively.

8. Open the clamp on the tubing to allow water to flow into the colostomy. Adjust the flow rate as needed.
A controlled flow rate helps to prevent cramping and discomfort.

9. Allow the water to flow in over 5-10 minutes. If cramping occurs, temporarily stop the flow until it subsides.
Gradual water flow helps to prevent discomfort and allows the bowel to accommodate the water. Cramping might suggest the bowel is prepared to evacuate, the water temperature is too cold, the flow rate is excessive, or there’s air trapped in the tube.

10. Once the prescribed amount of water has been instilled, clamp the tubing and carefully remove the cone from the stoma.
Prevents water leakage and maintains hygiene during the subsequent evacuation phase.

11. Let the water and stool drain into the irrigation sleeve for about 30-45 minutes.
The water will stimulate the colon to empty. During this time, stool and water will flow into the irrigation sleeve, reducing the frequency of future stool output.

12. Once evacuation is complete, clean the stoma and surrounding skin with warm water and pat dry.
Maintains skin integrity and prevents irritation or infection.

13. Attach a clean colostomy bag or stoma cap.
Prepares the stoma for normal daily activities and ensures a secure fit to prevent leaks.

14. Document the results and the patient’s response.
Record the details of the colostomy irrigation procedure in the patient’s medical records, including the volume of irrigation solution used, any complications or observations, and the patient’s tolerance of the procedure.

Sources and References

Paul Martin R.N. brings his wealth of experience from five years as a medical-surgical nurse to his role as a nursing instructor and writer for Nurseslabs, where he shares his expertise in nursing management, emergency care, critical care, infection control, and public health to help students and nurses become the best version of themselves and elevate the nursing profession.

2 thoughts on “Colostomy Irrigation”

  1. While colostomy irrigation itself is a single technique, there are different methods or approaches to performing it based on the equipment and personal preference. Here are some common types of colostomy irrigation:

    1. Traditional or Standard Colostomy Irrigation:

    • Equipment: This method uses a traditional irrigation kit consisting of a bag of sterile water, a cone-shaped tip, tubing, and a collection bag.
    • Process: The procedure involves filling the colon with water and then holding it for a designated time before flushing it out.
    • Advantages: Widely available and relatively inexpensive.
    • Disadvantages: Can be time-consuming and may require some practice to master.

    2. Closed-System Irrigation:

    • Equipment: This method uses a closed-system irrigation kit that includes a pre-filled bag of solution, a pre-connected tip, and tubing.
    • Process: The closed system is designed for easier use and reduces the risk of contamination. It’s generally quicker and more convenient than traditional irrigation.
    • Advantages: More convenient and less messy, with a reduced risk of contamination.
    • Disadvantages: May be more expensive than traditional kits.

    3. Manual Irrigation:

    • Equipment: This method utilizes a simple syringe or bulb syringe to manually deliver the irrigation solution into the colon.
    • Process: The user manually injects water into the colon through the stoma.
    • Advantages: More portable and compact, making it a good option for travel.
    • Disadvantages: Requires more dexterity and manual control, and it may be more challenging to deliver a consistent amount of water.

    4. Open-System Irrigation:

    • Equipment: This approach uses a large bag of sterile water, separate tubing, and a cone-shaped tip. It may be more common in hospital settings.
    • Process: It follows a similar procedure to traditional irrigation, but the system is open to the environment, potentially increasing the risk of contamination.
    • Advantages: Can be more affordable than closed-system kits.
    • Disadvantages: Increased risk of contamination.

    5. Other Specialized Kits:

    • Disposable Kits: These pre-packaged kits offer convenience and reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
    • Kits with Gravity-Fed Systems: These kits utilize gravity to deliver the irrigation solution, making the process more hands-free.

    Choosing the Right Method:

    • Healthcare Provider: It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider or a colostomy nurse to determine the most suitable irrigation method for your individual needs, preferences, and colostomy type.
    • Individual Preferences: Consider factors like ease of use, convenience, cost, and your level of comfort with different techniques.

    Remember: The ultimate goal of colostomy irrigation is to provide individuals with a safe, effective, and manageable way to control their bowel movements and improve their quality of life.

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