The nurse is caring for a patient with a colostomy. The patient asks, "will I ever be able to swim again". The nurse's best response would be?

Appeared in: DHS Staff Nurse - 2018 (Shift-2nd)

Explanation

This response is correct because it provides direct, factual, and positive reassurance, which is a key principle of therapeutic communication.
It correctly informs the patient that modern ostomy appliances are waterproof and designed to allow participation in activities like swimming.
The answer supports the primary goal of ostomy care, which is to help the patient return to an active and full life, thereby promoting positive body image and psychosocial well-being.
By directly addressing the patient's specific concern, the nurse opens the door for further education and discussion, rather than shutting down communication.

Option B: This statement is factually incorrect. Modern ostomy pouches are specifically designed to be waterproof and can be safely immersed in water.
Option C: This is also factually incorrect. Water itself does not harm the stoma, which is mucous membrane. The pouching system is designed to protect it.
Option D: This is a classic example of a non-therapeutic communication technique (false reassurance). The phrase 'Don't worry' dismisses the patient's legitimate feelings and concerns.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to Therapeutic communication and patient education regarding lifestyle adaptation with a colostomy to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
A nurse's role extends beyond physical care to include psychosocial support. Helping a patient with an ostomy regain confidence and resume normal activities is critical for their mental health and quality of life.
Patient education is a priority. Nurses must provide accurate information about stoma care, diet, and lifestyle to empower patients to manage their condition independently and effectively.
What if? The patient asked about participating in contact sports like football or wrestling? The nurse's response would be more cautious. While still possible, the nurse should advise consulting the surgeon and recommend using a stoma guard to protect the stoma from direct impact and trauma.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question. This is a psychosocial question about lifestyle and body image, not just a clinical procedure.
Evaluate the options based on two key criteria: 1) Factual accuracy regarding colostomy care, and 2) Principles of therapeutic communication.
Eliminate options that are factually incorrect. You should know that modern ostomy appliances are waterproof, which makes options B and C incorrect.
Compare the remaining options. Option A directly answers the patient's question with accurate, reassuring information. Option D uses a communication-blocking phrase ('Don't worry') and offers vague reassurance.
Select the option that is both factually correct and therapeutically sound, which is the one that directly and positively addresses the patient's specific concern.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Therapeutic communication and patient education regarding lifestyle adaptation with a colostomy.
Stem keywords: colostomy, patient asks, swim again, nurse's best response
Lead-in keywords: best response

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 6 p. 45-47

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor pp. 635-637, 634-636

Practise the full DHS Staff Nurse - 2018 (Shift-2nd)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.