Linneke, not her real name, is 50 years old and works as an ambulance nurse. She recently had surgery to form a colostomy after years of dealing with slow-transit constipation with a Malone stoma, also known as a Malone antegrade continence enema (MACE). Although adjusting to the stoma was challenging, Linneke now experiences significantly less pain and has regained much of her independence, managing her stoma care on her own.
Authors: Theo Tromp, Nelleke van de Vliert, Nursing Consultants in Ostomy Care, Welland Nederland BV
Clinical Need: Linneke had red, irritated skin around the stoma with consistent itching beneath the skin barrier.
Care Pathway: Aura® Plus Drainable
Introduction
This case study explores the journey of Linneke who recently had stoma surgery to form a colostomy. Linneke was facing persistent skin irritation, including redness around the stoma and continuous itching under the skin barrier, after using a non-Welland 2-piece system with a flat flange. This story highlights the significant impact of peristomal skin health on a patient’s quality of life and the critical role of innovative solutions in addressing these issues.
Patient Assessment
Following her surgery, Linneke used a non-Welland 2-piece system with a flat flange. She experienced skin irritation almost immediately, reporting redness around the stoma and continuous itching under the skin barrier.
Clinical Need
Theo Tromp, Nursing Consultant in Ostomy Care, assessed Linneke and identified the clinical need to treat the red, irritated skin and to stop the continuous itching.
Care Pathway
Theo recommended Aura Plus Drainable. This recommendation was made because of the properties of the Aura Plus hydrocolloid. The hydrocolloid has a high absorption rate which may help to reduce the risk of irritation and skin breakdown. The formulation is made from all natural, food-grade ingredients which reduces the risk of sensitivity and irritation. It also contains medical grade Manuka honey which is known for its therapeutic properties.
Aura Plus has been dermatologically accredited by Skin Health Alliance, meaning it has been independently reviewed to ensure that it meets the highest standards of skin safety.
Clinical Outcome
Linneke noticed a reduction in redness and itchiness within 24 hours of applying Aura Plus, with the itching subsiding and redness disappearing within 48 hours.
Resolving her skin issues has made a big difference to Linneke’s quality of life. She says “I see the future positively again and I want to pick up my work”.
Linneke also likes the aesthetic appeal of the black Aura Plus pouches. She found them to be elegant and feels empowered by the choice, choosing to use black pouches or sand pouches depending on her clothes.
Linneke has been able to resume her daily activities and looks forward to returning to work, feeling positive about her future. She says that having a stoma hasn’t changed who she is, “I just stayed Linneke. After all my stoma doesn’t change my personality.”
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Before trying Aura Plus
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After trying Aura Plus
Overview
This case study demonstrates the important role of the nursing team in supporting patients as they take their own steps towards self-management, helping to solve any challenges or complications on the way.
Peristomal skin health is an extremely important part of stoma care. Continuous irritation is not something that should be expected or endured. Not only is it a constant reminder of the presence of the stoma which could be expected to have negative implications for wellbeing and quality of life, but it also has serious implications for skin integrity.
Manuka honey infused hydrocolloid pouches have been reported to soothe the feeling of irritated skin almost immediately once in contact with the skin, as was the case for Linneke. Theo’s clinical goal was to treat the red, irritated, and itchy skin, and this goal was achieved.
A secondary benefit for Linneke was the choice of pouch colour which became available to her. Linneke is now able to match the pouch material colour to her clothes, preferring the black colour but also using the sand pouch when it matches her outfit better. This choice enables a patient to take back some control when it comes to their stoma care, and this can have a significant impact on a patient’s acceptance of their stoma and the need to wear a stoma pouch.
