Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Test 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Educating the patient on site care is a priority nursing intervention for a patient with a new colostomy because understanding how to care for the colostomy site is crucial for the patient's self-management and overall health. Proper education helps the patient learn how to maintain hygiene, prevent complications, and manage the ostomy effectively. This knowledge empowers the patient and can significantly impact their adaptation to living with a colostomy.

Moreover, education about site care also involves teaching the patient about recognizing signs of complications, such as skin irritation or changes in the stoma. When patients are informed about how to care for their ostomy, they are more likely to adhere to care protocols, which can reduce the risk of infection and improve their quality of life.

While monitoring bowel sounds, assessing for signs of infection, and changing the ostomy pouch are all important interventions in the overall care and management of a patient with a colostomy, these actions are typically part of routine care procedures and follow-up, whereas educating the patient is foundational. A solid understanding of colostomy care from the onset enhances the patient's confidence and promotes better health outcomes, making it the most vital initial intervention.