The incidence of peristomal skin complications (PSCs) is reported to be as high as 77%, and the negative impact of PSCs on patient quality of life is well documented. In addition, studies show that the majority of patients fail to recognize PSCs, believing that skin issues are "normal", and only 20% seek treatment. This data emphasizes the need for consumer-based tools that educate individuals with ostomies about strategies for maintaining skin health and that assist the person with an ostomy to promptly identify PSCs. During this episode of WOCTalk, we sit down with Jo Hoeflok and Christine Kim to discuss their session at the WOCN Society’s 50th Annual Conference. “Development of a Patient Peristomal Skin Assessment Guide” was a symposia session that walked through the development, availability, and appropriate utilization of a consumer-based tool for recognition and management of peristomal skin complications—The Peristomal Skin Assessment Guide for Consumers.

View the full conference session, “Development of a Patient Peristomal Skin Assessment Guide”

The WOCN Society’s evidence-based clinical tools are perfect for the home environment to aid with transitions of care and to improve patient outcomes. The use of these free online tools increases staff competence by augmenting skill sets in support surface selection, lower extremity wound management and ostomy complications. For information on the Society’s evidence-based clinical tools, visit: wocn.org/clinicaltools

To demo the Society’s Peristomal Skin Assessment Guides, visit: psag.wocn.org.

Speaker Bios

Jo Hoeflok RN, BSN, MA, CETN(C), CGN(C)

Christine Kim