JSTA December 2010 - Australian Association of Stomal Therapy ...
JSTA December 2010 - Australian Association of Stomal Therapy ...
JSTA December 2010 - Australian Association of Stomal Therapy ...
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
Print Post Approved PP 642521/00041<br />
ISSN 1030 5823<br />
The Journal <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia<br />
V O L U M E 3 0 N U M B E R 4 D E c E M B E R 2 0 1 0<br />
Case studies: Hollister Adapt Barrier Seals<br />
(7805) used in conjunction with negative<br />
pressure therapy dressing to maintain<br />
moisture control in complex wounds<br />
Reflective essays<br />
Iran, an experience<br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses <strong>of</strong> Newcastle<br />
give Birth OR<br />
Articles printed in the Journal <strong>Stomal</strong><br />
<strong>Therapy</strong> Australia: index 2008-<strong>2010</strong>
Heading in the right direction<br />
The Dansac Nova two piece range in Urostomy, Drainable and Closed,<br />
has the largest selection <strong>of</strong> wafers to best suit your patient’s skin and stoma<br />
type, helping them to avoid roadblocks and get on with life.<br />
Please call Customer Service on 1800 331 766<br />
to bring together the right combination <strong>of</strong> two piece samples for your patient.<br />
Flat<br />
- for well formed stomas<br />
X3<br />
- to protect your skin<br />
SoFt Mouldable<br />
- scissorless and conformable<br />
FirM ConveX<br />
- retracted stomas
aaStN Code <strong>of</strong> Ethics<br />
The Journal <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia<br />
Volume 30 Number 4 – december <strong>2010</strong><br />
ISSN 1030-5823<br />
Copyright © 2009 by the<br />
<strong>Australian</strong> <strong>Association</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses Inc. ABN 16072891322<br />
• The stomal therapy nurse must at all times maintain the<br />
highest standards <strong>of</strong> nursing care and pr<strong>of</strong>essional conduct.<br />
• The stomal therapy nurse will provide needed services to<br />
persons irrespective <strong>of</strong> their race, colour, creed, sex, sexual<br />
preference, age and political or social status.<br />
• The stomal therapy nurse must respect the beliefs, values<br />
and customs <strong>of</strong> the individual and maintain his/her right to<br />
privacy by maintaining confidentiality, sharing with others<br />
only information relevant to that person’s care.<br />
• The stomal therapy nurse will not participate in unethical<br />
practice.<br />
• The stomal therapy nurse must maintain competency by<br />
keeping abreast <strong>of</strong> new developments in the theory and<br />
practice <strong>of</strong> stoma care and related fields.<br />
• The stomal therapy nurse will participate actively in<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional, inter-pr<strong>of</strong>essional and community endeavours in<br />
order to meet the highest pr<strong>of</strong>essional standards.<br />
• No full member shall be in the employ <strong>of</strong> a company or selfemployed<br />
in the manufacture or sale <strong>of</strong> products, prostheses<br />
or pharmaceuticals where it could be perceived that the use<br />
or selling <strong>of</strong> products prostheses or pharmaceuticals could<br />
disadvantage or contradict the personal preference <strong>of</strong> clients<br />
or be construed to result in unethical conflict <strong>of</strong> interest.<br />
Published four times a year by<br />
a division <strong>of</strong> Cambridge Media<br />
10 Walters drive, osborne Park Wa 6017<br />
Web www.cambridgemedia.com.au<br />
Copy Editor Rachel Hoare<br />
Graphic designer Sarah Horton<br />
advertising enquiries to<br />
Simon Henriques, Cambridge Publishing<br />
Tel (08) 6314 5222 Fax (08) 6312 5299<br />
Email simonh@cambridgemedia.com.au<br />
disclaimer The opinions expressed in the Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia<br />
are those <strong>of</strong> the authors and not necessarily those <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Australian</strong><br />
<strong>Association</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses Inc., the editor or the editorial<br />
board.<br />
contents<br />
President’s report 3<br />
Editorial 4<br />
Articles<br />
Case studies: Hollister Adapt Barrier Seals<br />
(7805) used in conjunction with negative<br />
pressure therapy dressing to maintain<br />
moisture control in complex wounds 6<br />
Reflective essay: <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy nurse:<br />
a year in the making 14<br />
Reflective essay 17<br />
Reflective essay 22<br />
Iran, an experience 27<br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses <strong>of</strong> Newcastle<br />
give Birth OR 31<br />
Conference report 32<br />
WCET report 32<br />
ACSA report 33<br />
State reports 34<br />
Articles printed in the Journal <strong>Stomal</strong><br />
<strong>Therapy</strong> Australia: index 2008-<strong>2010</strong> 38<br />
Editorial Board<br />
lorrie Gray RN MSc(Ed) BSoc SC STN<br />
WA Branch STNEP Coordinator<br />
Keryln Carville RN PhD STN (Cred)<br />
Silver Chain Nursing <strong>Association</strong><br />
Julia Kittscha RN STN BHSc<br />
Wollongong Hospital, NSW<br />
Julia thompson RN PhD STN<br />
St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Sydney<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 1
directory<br />
ExECutiVE CoMMittEE<br />
President Sharmaine Peterson<br />
St Andrew’s Hospital<br />
350 South Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000<br />
Tel (08) 8408 2164 (w)<br />
Email sharmainep@bigpond.com<br />
V/President Helma riddell<br />
GSAHS, PO Box 159<br />
Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650<br />
Tel (02) 6938 6487<br />
Mobile 0427 460 024<br />
Email hermanna.riddell@gsahs.health.nsw.gov.au<br />
treasurer Vanessa rhodes<br />
Royal Hobart Hospital<br />
48 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS 7000<br />
Tel (03) 6222 8283<br />
Mobile 0409 807 827<br />
Email joco7595@bigpond.net.au<br />
Secretary Margaret Fraser<br />
3/70-74 Brunswick Road, Brunswick, VIC 3056<br />
Tel (03) 03 9388 0791<br />
Mob 0410 417 287<br />
Email margaretfraser5@bigpond.com<br />
Membership robyn Simcock<br />
Coordinator PO Box 153, Floreat, WA 6014<br />
Mob 0417 627 970<br />
Email rmsimcock@bigpond.com<br />
Editor theresa Winston<br />
Fraser Coast Health Service, Hervey Bay Hospital,<br />
PO Box 592, Hervey Bay, QLD 4655<br />
Tel 0438 738 074 (w)<br />
Email theresawinston@gmail.com<br />
Committee Sue delanty<br />
Launceston General Hospital<br />
Charles Street, Launceston, TAS 7250<br />
Tel (03) 6348 7832 (w)<br />
Mob 0417 395 536<br />
Email sue.delanty@dhhs.tas.gov.au<br />
debra d’Silva<br />
Silver Chain Nursing <strong>Association</strong><br />
6 Sundercombe Street, Osborne Park, WA 6017<br />
Tel (08) 9242 0242<br />
Mobile 0410 222 048<br />
Email debiedsilva@hotmail.com<br />
Genevieve Cahir<br />
Northern Hospital, 185 Cooper Street<br />
Epping, VIC 3076<br />
Tel (03) 8405 8597<br />
Mobile 0417 385 533<br />
Email gencahir@internode.on.net<br />
Education Fiona Bolton<br />
Subcommittee 64 Carlisle Street, Ethelton, SA 5015<br />
Mob 0418 266 680<br />
Email fionabolton65@optusnet.com.au<br />
WCEt id Brenda Sando<br />
46 Lugano St, Riverhills 4074<br />
Tel (07) 3376 5409<br />
Email: bsando46@bigpond.com<br />
CPd & Sue delanty<br />
Credentialling Launceston General Hospital<br />
<strong>of</strong>ficer Charles Street, Launceston, TAS 7250<br />
Email sue.delanty@dhhs.tas.gov.au<br />
2 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
Website Karen McNamara<br />
Coordinator Acute Home Care Service<br />
Joondalup Health Campus,<br />
Shenton Ave, Joondalup, WA 6027<br />
Tel (08) 94009297 (w)<br />
Mob 0431 603 230<br />
Email mcnamarak@ramsayhealth.com.au<br />
Public <strong>of</strong>ficer Carol Stott<br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Department<br />
Dickinson 2 North, Prince <strong>of</strong> Wales Hospital<br />
Barker St, Randwick, NSW 2031<br />
Tel (02) 9382 3869<br />
Email carol.stott@sesiah.health.nsw.gov.au<br />
SPaP liaison diana Hayes<br />
CNC/<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong>, Western Hospital<br />
Gordon Street, Footscray, VIC 3011<br />
Tel: (03) 8345 6553<br />
Mobile: 0428 441 793<br />
Email diana.hayes@wh.org.au<br />
aaStN StatE rEPrESENtatiVES<br />
aCt Kellie Burke<br />
CNC <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong><br />
The Canberra Hospital, PO Box 11, Woden, ACT 2606<br />
Tel (02) 6244 2222 page 50959<br />
Fax (02) 6205 2829<br />
Email kellie.burke@act.gov.au<br />
NSW Jenny rex<br />
CNC<br />
Royal Prince Alfred Hospital<br />
Missenden Road, Camperdown, NSW 2050<br />
Tel (02) 9515 8990<br />
Email jenny.rex@email.cs.nsw.gov.au<br />
Nt Jennifer Byrnes<br />
Royal Darwin Hospital, Rocklands Drive, Tiwi, NT 0810<br />
Tel (08) 8922 8888<br />
Email Jennifer.byrnes@nt.gov.au<br />
Qld Helleen Purdy<br />
St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital<br />
457 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4001<br />
Tel (07) 3834 4589<br />
Fax (07) 3834 4373<br />
Email Helleen.Purdy@uchealth.com.au<br />
Sa lynda Staruchowicz<br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Department,<br />
Royal Adelaide Hospital<br />
North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000<br />
Tel (08) 8222 4000 pager 1224<br />
Tel (08) 8222 4416 for answering machine<br />
Email lynda.staruchowicz@health.sa.gov.au<br />
taS tracey Beattie<br />
North West Regional Hospital<br />
Brickport Rd, Burnie, TAS 7320<br />
Tel (03) 6430 6588<br />
Mob 0408 317 411<br />
Email tracey.beattie@dhhs.tas.gov.au<br />
ViC Patricia McKenzie<br />
5 Royal Place, South Morang, VIC 3752<br />
Tel 1300 33 44 55<br />
Mob 0406 534 850<br />
Email pmckenzie@rdns.com.au<br />
Wa leigh davies<br />
Silver Chain Nursing <strong>Association</strong><br />
6 Sundercombe Street<br />
Osborne Park, WA 6017<br />
Tel (08) 9242 0242 (w)<br />
Mob 0410 222 386<br />
Email Ldavies@silverchain.org.au
President’s report<br />
Sharmaine Peterson<br />
Welcome to the last edition <strong>of</strong> the journal for <strong>2010</strong>.<br />
The Executive is very excited and proud to have had a proposal<br />
from CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health<br />
Literature) to index our journal on their electronic database.<br />
CINAHL is based in Glendale, California, and is a comprehensive<br />
resource for nursing literature, providing indexes for over 3000<br />
journals and 500 titles in full text. This will provide greater<br />
exposure to the journal and authors worldwide. Future articles<br />
for publication will, therefore, need to have an abstract or<br />
summary as well as a list <strong>of</strong> cited references.<br />
Royal District Nursing Service (Victoria) has requested a link to<br />
the AASTN website. They have recently translated our patient<br />
handout brochure to several different languages including<br />
Greek, Italian, Vietnamese, Chinese and other languages. STNs<br />
and ostomates will be able to access them via this link.<br />
It is planned that the minutes <strong>of</strong> the Executive meetings,<br />
Treasurer’s report and Membership Coordinator’s report will<br />
also be on the website.<br />
I recently attended the SA Ileostomy <strong>Association</strong> AGM, and gave a<br />
talk on the WCET/WCON Congress. I also showed some slides <strong>of</strong><br />
The future <strong>of</strong> post-operative care is clear to see...<br />
because the post-op dressing that you put on your patient should be the only thing<br />
they acquire before they go home<br />
OPSITE Post-Op Visible is the latest development in post-op film dressings, helping to reduce the incidence <strong>of</strong><br />
infection caused by early and frequent removal.<br />
the Convention Centre, delegates, costumes and the promotional<br />
video for the 2012 WCET Conference. One <strong>of</strong> the volunteers,<br />
Val Masey, attended the ACSA AGM and discussed some <strong>of</strong> the<br />
presentations. One <strong>of</strong> interest to the ostomates and myself, was<br />
given by a nutritionist, Margaret Allen, an ostomate herself. She<br />
works at Northcote Integrated Health in Victoria and is able to<br />
provide practical advice and support to ostomates concerning<br />
diet and wellbeing. Ostomates and STNs can contact her via email<br />
on Margaret@foodfirst.com.au or info@foodfirst.com.au<br />
Another interesting fact from ACSA – if all volunteers who give<br />
their time at all <strong>Australian</strong> Ostomy <strong>Association</strong>s were paid, it<br />
would cost $43 billion!!!<br />
The Stoma Appliance Scheme review has been completed;<br />
however, due to the recent election, no further information has<br />
become available.<br />
At the WCET/WCON Congress, Elizabeth English retired as<br />
President <strong>of</strong> the WCET. Elizabeth is employed at the Royal<br />
Adelaide Hospital and is a dedicated and passionate STN.<br />
She has worked tirelessly for the WCET as Chair <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Education committee for six years; Vice-President for four years<br />
and President for four years. She has travelled to China, the<br />
Philippines, Iran and Indonesia teaching nurses about stoma<br />
and wound care. At present she is liaising with the WCET,<br />
companies and the SA Committee which is organising the 2012<br />
WCET Conference. Well done Liz.<br />
I would also like to congratulate this years scholarship winners:<br />
Elinor Kyte (Convatec) research scholarship – Ian Whitely;<br />
AASTN Travel Grant – Diana Hayes; CSSANZ (to attend<br />
conference) – Kara Torney.<br />
I wish you all a safe and happy Christmas and a healthy New Year.<br />
Customer Service: 13 13 60 www.smith-nephew.com.au/healthcare Trademark <strong>of</strong> Smith & Nephew. 186x120 (09/10)<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 3
Editorial<br />
Theresa Winston<br />
In this month’s journal, there are several reflective essays<br />
written by nurses while undertaking their Graduate Certificate<br />
in <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong>. It is interesting to read about the progress<br />
<strong>of</strong> the authors during their clinical placements, how they grew<br />
in confidence, increased their knowledge base and were better<br />
able to communicate and collaborate with other members <strong>of</strong> the<br />
healthcare team.<br />
It also shows us the importance <strong>of</strong> having preceptors to work<br />
with these nurses, to share their vast knowledge and experience,<br />
to act as a teacher, mentor and role model. Although the role <strong>of</strong><br />
the preceptor can be exhausting and sometimes draining, it is also<br />
very rewarding, especially when you read the reflections <strong>of</strong> your<br />
student. Knowing that some skill or advice that you’ve passed<br />
on may help a patient in the future also makes it worthwhile.<br />
As can be seen in the article by Carmen Smith, preceptorship<br />
roles are required internationally as well as nationally. Carmen<br />
writes about her experiences in Iran, where she assisted with<br />
the clinical component <strong>of</strong> the first Iranian Enterostomal <strong>Therapy</strong><br />
Nursing Education Program (ETNEP).<br />
As Sharmaine mentioned in the President’s report, CINAHL<br />
will index our journal on their database. CINAHL is a widely<br />
used database that indexes and abstracts articles from a large<br />
number <strong>of</strong> nursing, medical and allied health journals. CINAHL<br />
itself does not include the full text <strong>of</strong> journal articles, but <strong>of</strong>ten<br />
links to the full text in other databases. It is, therefore, very<br />
important when submitting an article for publication in this<br />
journal to include an abstract. The information that will appear<br />
on CINAHL will be:<br />
• name <strong>of</strong> the author(s)<br />
• title <strong>of</strong> the article<br />
• title <strong>of</strong> the journal the article was published in<br />
• volume, issue and page numbers<br />
• abstract.<br />
The full article WILL NOT be available, but gives<br />
people enough information to find the article in print or<br />
electronically. Also, just a reminder, if you do have an article<br />
to submit, please send it in via the Cambridge Media website<br />
(http://www.cambridgemedia.com.au/).<br />
The answer to the Where am I? in the September journal was The<br />
Kremlin.<br />
Quote <strong>of</strong> the day:<br />
Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell ‘em, “Certainly I<br />
can!” Then get busy and find out how to do it. Theodore Roosevelt<br />
(1858–1919)<br />
Correction: The CoNNO report in the September journal was<br />
prepared by Lesley Everingham and Wendy Sansom, not Diana<br />
Hayes.<br />
4 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
All submitted articles are reviewed by peers for relevance,<br />
construction, flow, style and grammar. All reviewers spend<br />
considerable time in reviewing the articles and providing<br />
feedback to the authors. The length <strong>of</strong> time <strong>of</strong> the publication<br />
process can vary and depends on the quality <strong>of</strong> the work<br />
submitted. Several revisions may be required to bring the article<br />
to a standard acceptable for publication. The Editorial team<br />
undertake the final review and <strong>of</strong>ten have different questions<br />
for the author/s to consider. Please do not let these suggestions/<br />
comments stop you from resubmitting your article. At the end<br />
<strong>of</strong> the day, this process ensures that your article will be <strong>of</strong> a high<br />
standard and well received by readers. Please note that due<br />
to the editorial review process there is no guarantee <strong>of</strong> when<br />
accepted articles will be published.<br />
PublIcATIoN deAdlINeS for 2011<br />
All materials for publication must be sent to the Editor by the<br />
following dates:<br />
January 15th – March 2011 issue<br />
April 15th - June 2011 issue<br />
July 15th - September 2011 issue<br />
October 15th - <strong>December</strong> 2011 issue<br />
I would like to thank everyone who has sent in an article for the<br />
journal over the last year. Please keep contributions coming. I<br />
wish all readers a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.<br />
electronic submission<br />
<strong>of</strong> manuscripts to the journal<br />
the Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia now requires<br />
all submissions to be made online<br />
StEPS to SuBMiSSioN aNd PuBliCatioN<br />
• Go to the publisher‘s website: www.cambridgemedia.com.au<br />
• Click on Manuscript System.<br />
• Login.<br />
• Create an account if first time using the system. This will be<br />
retained for future enquiries and submissions.<br />
• Enter your personal details: all fields must be completed.<br />
• Confirm your details.<br />
SuBMittiNG aN artiClE<br />
• Step 1 – Type the title, type <strong>of</strong> paper and abstract. Select<br />
publication – <strong>JSTA</strong>.<br />
• Step 2 – Confirm author. Add co-author details (all fields) if<br />
applicable.<br />
• Step 3 – Upload files. Only Word documents are accepted.<br />
Please ensure your document contains the required<br />
information and is formatted according to the author<br />
guidelines. Photos to be sent separately in JPEG format.<br />
• Step 4 – Add any comments for the editor.<br />
• Step 5 – Review your information then click submit.<br />
Once submitted, the manuscript is reviewed by the editor and, if<br />
acceptable, sent for peer review.<br />
Peer review<br />
Peer reviewers will be asked to review the manuscripts through<br />
the electronic process.
ConvaTec (Australia) Pty Limited. ABN 70 131 232 570. Unipark Monash, Building 2, Ground Floor, 195 Wellington Road, Clayton VIC 3168 Australia.<br />
PO Box 63, Mulgrave, Vic 3170. Phone: (03) 9239 2700 Facsimile: (03) 9239 2743.<br />
ConvaTec (New Zealand) Limited. AK2135265 PO Box 62663, Greenlane 1546 New Zealand.<br />
Phone: (09) 306 8833 Facsimile: (09) 306 8831.<br />
© <strong>2010</strong> ConvaTec Inc. November <strong>2010</strong> O258.<br />
There’s only one<br />
ConvaTec Mouldable<br />
Technology and<br />
it’s changing lives<br />
Now available on<br />
Esteem synergy ® fl at wafers<br />
If you haven’t tried ConvaTec Mouldable Technology yet, now’s the time to change.<br />
ConvaTec’s wafers change lives with:<br />
• Built in Rebounding Memory Technology that helps the adhesive gently hug the stoma for a secure seal.<br />
• Durahesive ® Technology which absorbs effl uent and swells to gently turtleneck and hug the stoma – for even greater<br />
leakage protection.<br />
• and Flexible adhesive that moves with the patient to maintain a secure seal, to minimise leakage and maintain healthy skin!<br />
Convex and fl at mouldable wafers are available on ConvaTec SUR-FIT ® plus, and Esteem synergy ® appliances.<br />
To learn more, call your ConvaTec Business Development Manager or<br />
telephone: Australia 1800 006 609 New Zealand: 0800 441 763
case studies<br />
Hollister Adapt Barrier Seals (7805) used in<br />
conjunction with negative pressure therapy dressing<br />
to maintain moisture control in complex wounds<br />
Jennifer Daniels • CNC/STN Wound Management/<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong>, Redcliffe Hospital Metro North Health Service<br />
District, QLD<br />
INTroducTIoN<br />
Since becoming exposed to stomal therapy nursing whilst<br />
working as a wound consultant in 2005 and subsequently<br />
becoming an STN in 2008, being able to use wound and<br />
stoma therapies concurrently has enhanced my overall practice.<br />
Confronted <strong>of</strong>ten with difficult to manage or highly exudating<br />
wounds, adapting principles from stoma care through pouching<br />
systems, powders, belts, wafers, seals and pastes has enabled<br />
reduced dressing costs, extended wear time <strong>of</strong> dressing products,<br />
reduced dressing application time, enabling enhanced quality <strong>of</strong><br />
life for wound suffers and peace <strong>of</strong> mind for nursing staff. The<br />
following case studies look at using Hollister Adapt Barrier<br />
Seals (7805) to assist with wound care management.<br />
The first case study <strong>of</strong> three focuses on a patient admitted<br />
with multiple Stage 4 pressure injuries in some exceptionally<br />
challenging sites with the addition <strong>of</strong> high exudate. Although<br />
it is noted Hollister Adapt Barrier Seals are not considered<br />
sterile in nature (they do not come in sterile packaging) all other<br />
products previously used (Eakin seals, pastes, hydrocolloids,<br />
pouches and drapes) failed to maintain peri skin integrity and<br />
negative therapy seal. The Adapt seals did not compromise the<br />
wound as their placement was adjacent to the wound and not in<br />
direct contact with the actual wound bed.<br />
cASe STudy 1<br />
Patient history<br />
• Fifty-two-year-old male classified as C6, a complete tetraplegic<br />
using the ASIA (American Spinal Injury <strong>Association</strong> – ASIA–<br />
standard neurological classification <strong>of</strong> spinal cord injury)<br />
post-diving incident at age 19.<br />
• Chronic constipation requiring self-administration <strong>of</strong><br />
aperients.<br />
• Multiple admissions for previous pressure injuries requiring<br />
extensive wound care/surgery:<br />
• In 2006: rectus femoris flap to L) trochanter: incision and<br />
drainage <strong>of</strong> gluteal abscess. Debridement <strong>of</strong> R) trochanteric<br />
bursa and direct closure: sacral pressure injury repair with<br />
local flap.<br />
• In 2008: admitted infected pressure injuries for wound care,<br />
discharged four months later.<br />
6 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
current<br />
• Admitted June <strong>2010</strong>: septic from Stage 4 pressure injury to<br />
sacrum with osteomyelitis <strong>of</strong> pelvis.<br />
• Multiple pressure injuries to lower limbs, hips and elbows,<br />
all requiring sharp surgical debridement 6 June <strong>2010</strong>.<br />
Medications<br />
Intravenous antibiotic (IVAB) vancomycin, multivitamins,<br />
coloxyl and senna. Iron transfusion and red blood cell transfusion.<br />
This case study will focus on the Stage 4 pressure injury to the<br />
sacrum including perineum. On admission, the patient had<br />
necrotic friable bone at ischium and fragmented ischium with<br />
possibly obliterated necrotic tissue. The patient was also noted<br />
to have osteomyeltis <strong>of</strong> the pelvis.<br />
Figure 1. Stage 4 pressure ulcer with fragmented bone on view.<br />
Extensive surgical debridement was carried out, which left<br />
fragmented bone on view and extensive structural injury. There<br />
was over 600ml <strong>of</strong> haemopurulent exudate in a 24-hour period,<br />
with periwound excoriation. The skin was fragile and the<br />
patient had excessive diarrhoea.
Management<br />
Vacuum assisted closure (VAC ® ) negative pressure therapy<br />
(NPT) was used, despite recommended precautions on use with<br />
fragmented bone on view; however, conservative dressings<br />
were not able to cope with the high exudate requiring changing<br />
1/241 . High exudate predisposed the patient to further wound<br />
deterioration and breakdown2 . Additional issues were faecal<br />
incontinence constantly contaminating the wound bed due<br />
to close proximity to and involving the perineum. Therefore,<br />
NPT was primarily used for exudate management and wound<br />
containment3 . Note: The area was not suitable for a wound<br />
pouching system due to the patient requiring positioning on his<br />
back (extensive, multiple, Stage 4 pressure injuries) and not able<br />
to draw away exudate.<br />
Issues<br />
• Excessive diarrhoea with subsequent faecal contamination <strong>of</strong><br />
wound.<br />
• Fragile periwound skin ++.<br />
• Wound adjacent to perineum: difficulty to get a seal using<br />
negative therapy, causing further skin maceration and<br />
increased wound breakdown.<br />
Eakin seals were previously tried, but these did not adhere or<br />
conform to periwound skin or around the perineum, resulting<br />
in leakage <strong>of</strong> VAC ® negative therapy seal. Trials using pastes<br />
required more time to apply and were not found to be stable<br />
enough around the perineum with normal rectus movement.<br />
The advantages <strong>of</strong> the Adapt seal:<br />
• No warming is required, which, in this case <strong>of</strong> extremely<br />
high exudate, enabled fast application.<br />
• Mouldable.<br />
• High absorbency, which reduced non-adhesion while<br />
applying negative therapy.<br />
• Easy application for staff.<br />
dressing technique<br />
• 3m Barrier Wipe applied to periwound skin.<br />
• Coloplast Stomahesive ® Powder was applied to heavily<br />
excoriated areas <strong>of</strong> periwound skin prior to application <strong>of</strong><br />
Adapt seals.<br />
• After first dressing change 48 hours later, periwound<br />
excoriation had healed and stoma adhesive powder no<br />
longer required.<br />
• Adapt seals were applied to the entire periwound skin<br />
single layer, distal wound close to rectum Adapt seal applied<br />
triple layers to build up wound edge for even surface and<br />
cope with normal motility <strong>of</strong> rectal muscles without losing<br />
negative therapy seal. Adapt Barrier Seals were able to be<br />
moulded and shaped as required.<br />
Figure 2. Adapt seals to protect periwound skin.<br />
• Application VAC ® dressing as per direction using WhiteFoam<br />
to exposed bone with Granufoam to remainder <strong>of</strong> the wound<br />
bed 3 .<br />
Figure 3. VAC ® dressing in situ.<br />
• Success was immediate with the Adapt seal and negative<br />
therapy dressing remaining intact between dressing changes.<br />
• Periwound skin healed and the patient eventually was able<br />
to transfer to conservative dressings earlier than expected<br />
and is currently awaiting discharge to rehab for final<br />
mobility clearance.<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 7
Figure 4. Ceased VAC ® treatment.<br />
The surgeons formed an end colostomy in the left upper<br />
quadrant <strong>of</strong> the abdomen to assist with patient self-care and<br />
reduce continued perianal skin breakdown from incontinence<br />
and pressure injury formation. This patient was not expected to<br />
survive this pressure injury and did have a septic shower early<br />
on in his admission.<br />
Multidisciplinary teams have enabled this patient to make<br />
significant progress; however, continued social support and<br />
community support will be needed to reduce further pressure<br />
injury formation.<br />
Multidisciplinary team involved in patient care included:<br />
• Dietician for nutritional support.<br />
• Medical.<br />
• Wound care.<br />
• Nursing.<br />
• Social worker (patient severe depression).<br />
• Mental health.<br />
• Community health.<br />
• Domiciliary.<br />
• Family and friends who were fundamental to patient finding<br />
will to heal.<br />
The main factor in his progress was the ability to treat using NPT<br />
which could not happen without the use <strong>of</strong> the Adapt seals to<br />
maintain a seal and protect his fragile skin. Thus Hollister Adapt<br />
Barrier Seals resulted in a cost-effective sustainable solution<br />
enabling wound improvement and better quality <strong>of</strong> life.<br />
8 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
cASe STudy 2:<br />
Patient History<br />
57 year old male, insulin dependant diabetic with advanced<br />
neuropathy and osteomyelitis <strong>of</strong> Ist Metatarsal/phalangeal<br />
joint (MTPJ).The patient had stood on a nail, not realised due<br />
to neuropathy and the foreign body was in the foot for three<br />
days. He was admitted with a septic left leg and cellulitis. At the<br />
penetration site necrotic tissue extended 10mm x 10 mm on the<br />
planter aspect <strong>of</strong> the foot. Tracking from puncture site extended<br />
to the medial aspect <strong>of</strong> foot.<br />
Management:<br />
• Debridement <strong>of</strong> Left foot - 50 mm x 30 mm demarcated<br />
necrosis with copious infected tissue down to facia, tracking<br />
proximally to sole <strong>of</strong> foot<br />
• A week later returned to theatre for a wash out. Necrotic<br />
tissue to flexor tendon 2nd toe. At this stage Negative<br />
Pressure therapy was applied.<br />
• Four days later returned to theatre for a further washout.<br />
• Two days later had an amputation 2nd toe<br />
Medications:<br />
Novorapid, Diabex, Augmentin Duo Forte<br />
Issues:<br />
• Continued leaking <strong>of</strong> Negative Pressure <strong>Therapy</strong> Dressing<br />
reported by patient and staff due to difficulty and complexity<br />
<strong>of</strong> wound position.<br />
• Patient requiring frequent dressing application or<br />
reinforcement <strong>of</strong> dressing.<br />
• Heavy maceration to peri wound from exudate not able to be<br />
contained<br />
• Peri wound skin irritation from layers <strong>of</strong> film dressings to<br />
maintain seal <strong>of</strong> negative pressure therapy dressing resulting<br />
in stripping <strong>of</strong> skin (Patient mummified with drape).<br />
• Patient discomfort from requirement <strong>of</strong> dressing to<br />
encapsulate entire foot resulting in decreasing ability to<br />
maintain hygiene and increase perspiration to foot.<br />
• Need for monitoring and returning to clinics for management<br />
<strong>of</strong> dressing daily<br />
• Increased cost <strong>of</strong> dressing and nursing hours<br />
Solution<br />
Use <strong>of</strong> Hollister Adapt Barrier Seal (7805) to peri wound skin<br />
• Enhanced ability <strong>of</strong> dressing to maintain a seal<br />
• Conformability to odd shape and position <strong>of</strong> wound<br />
• Seal ability to cope with heavy exudate levels and moisture<br />
without increasing risk <strong>of</strong> maceration to peri wound skin.<br />
• Ease <strong>of</strong> application for all staff
Try the NEW Moderma Flex<br />
1 piece pouch from Hollister<br />
Hollister Ostomy. Details Matter.<br />
Is pouch strength and<br />
flexibility important to you?<br />
• Adhesive Tape Border for strength, flexibility and added security<br />
• AF300 Filter – A filter that won’t block overnight giving you<br />
added security<br />
For Samples Call:<br />
Australia 1800 335 911<br />
New Zealand 0800 167 866<br />
© 2006 Hollister Incorporated. All rights reserved. Hollister and logo are trademarks <strong>of</strong> Hollister Incorporated.<br />
NEW<br />
���������������������������������������
Figure 5. Maceration.<br />
conclusion<br />
• Seal maintained dressing for appropriate treatment time.<br />
• Increased patient comfort.<br />
• Reduced nursing hours.<br />
• Reduced consumable costs.<br />
• Decreased periwound skin stripping.<br />
• Resolution periwound maceration.<br />
• Quality <strong>of</strong> life for patient.<br />
• Patient D/C to share care with community podiatrist for<br />
ongoing management.<br />
Figure 6. Use <strong>of</strong> Adapt seals to protect periwound skin.<br />
10 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
Figure 7. Use <strong>of</strong> Adapt seals to protect periwound skin.<br />
Figure 8. Use <strong>of</strong> WhiteFoam.<br />
Figure 9. Bridging TRACT pad to front <strong>of</strong> foot for patient comfort.
FD10175<br />
alginate gel with enzymes that kill absorbed bacteria 1<br />
Advanced technology wound care<br />
providing three clinical<br />
benefi ts in the one product<br />
www.fl aminalaustralia.com<br />
1. White R. Flaminal: A novel approach to wound bioburden control. Wounds UK 2006;2(3):64–69.<br />
Flen Pharma NV<br />
Blauwesteenstraat 87, B-2550 Kontich, Belgium<br />
www.fl enpharma.com<br />
® : Trademark <strong>of</strong> Flen Pharma<br />
• Moist wound environment<br />
• Continuous auto-debridement<br />
• Broad spectrum anti-bacterial activity 1<br />
An easy-to-apply gel that does not stick<br />
to the wound.<br />
Hypoallergenic.<br />
50 g tubes or 500 g tubs.<br />
Indicated for use on a wide range <strong>of</strong> wounds<br />
including chronic and traumatic wounds,<br />
ulcers, skin tears, second degree burns<br />
and complex grazes.<br />
Aspen Pharmacare Australia Pty Limited<br />
ABN 51 096 236 985<br />
34–36 Chandos Street, St Leonards NSW 2065<br />
Ph +61 2 8436 8300 ■ www.aspenpharma.com.au
coNcluSIoN<br />
The use <strong>of</strong> stomal therapy techniques and accessories<br />
complements wound management while assisting with<br />
complex wounds to ensure patients have positive outcomes<br />
with enhanced wound healing. Hollister Adapt Barrier Seals<br />
(7805) are versatile enough to be moulded and remoulded to<br />
fit into odd shapes while being able to bevel edges to promote<br />
low pr<strong>of</strong>ile <strong>of</strong> dressing edges, enhancing patient comfort. The<br />
use <strong>of</strong> Hollister Adapt Barrier Seals from ostomy care to wound<br />
care has increased dressing adhesion with difficult positioned<br />
12 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
wounds/highly exudating wounds and protecting fragile peri<br />
skin, while reducing costs <strong>of</strong> dressing changes and nursing<br />
hours, thus maintaining patients’ quality <strong>of</strong> life.<br />
refereNceS<br />
1. KCI Licensing Inc. V.A.C. ® <strong>Therapy</strong> clinical guidelines for deep<br />
sternal wound infection: A reference source for clinicians, 2006.<br />
2. Carville K. Wound Care Manual, 5th edn. Australia: Silver Chain<br />
Foundation, 2007.<br />
3. KCI licensing Inc. V.A.C. ® <strong>Therapy</strong> clinical guidelines: A reference<br />
source for clinicians, 2007.<br />
How would you manage these two stoma's?<br />
retracted ileostomy, high output<br />
Necrotic area between colostomy<br />
and laparotomy<br />
Any suggestions should be submitted to the editor and<br />
will get published in the next journal.<br />
If you have any photo's <strong>of</strong> difficult to manage stoma's<br />
please send your picture to the editor.
ALL THINGS UROSTOMY!<br />
Flexima Urosilk:<br />
• Large NON DRIP TAP closure.<br />
• Available in flat or flexible shallow convex.<br />
• Cut to fit and pre cut sizes.<br />
Flair Active:<br />
• Welland’s tried and tested Hydrocolloid flange<br />
designed for the <strong>Australian</strong> summer.<br />
• Split fabric cover for easy application and monitoring.<br />
• Water repellent, rapid dry fabric cover.<br />
Almarys Twin Plus:<br />
• 2 piece system for better skin protection.<br />
• NON DRIP TAP closure.<br />
• Available in flat or convex.<br />
For For more more information information and and samples samples please please contact contact Freecall 1800 819 274<br />
Omnigon Omnigon Customer Customer Service Service on: on:<br />
or samples@omnigon.com.au<br />
or samples@omnigon.com.au<br />
Pelican:<br />
• Largest range <strong>of</strong> pre cut sizes up to 55mm.<br />
• S<strong>of</strong>t plug closure - no overnight bag connector<br />
required.<br />
• Split fabric cover for easy application and<br />
monitoring.<br />
Curvex:<br />
• Moulds perfectly into curves, dips and creases.<br />
• Ideal for parastomal hernias and bulges.<br />
• Reduces the need for accessories.<br />
Freecall 1800 819 274<br />
PO Box 171 Moonee Ponds VIC 3039<br />
Visit<br />
.com.au
Reflective essay<br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> therapy nurse: a year in the making<br />
Sally Langford-Edmonds<br />
When making the decision to embark on this study, I never<br />
thought it would be so enlightening, opening such a plethora<br />
<strong>of</strong> experiences and knowledge bearing in so many directions. I<br />
have been nursing since 1981 in a range <strong>of</strong> settings, providing<br />
opportunity for varied clinical experiences. Throughout these<br />
years I have really enjoyed the personal growth and challenge,<br />
working with remarkable people and providing care for a great<br />
variety <strong>of</strong> wonderful and, at times, testing clients.<br />
I’m currently an after-hours hospital nurse coordinator<br />
employed by a metropolitan private hospital and I find myself<br />
in a fantastic position, being able to manage, continue hands-on<br />
clinical care, role model and troubleshoot in my work. I trained<br />
in the hospital system, general and midwifery, then enjoyed<br />
working in rural and metropolitan hospitals, later undertaking<br />
a BHSc(Nursing) and working in rural domiciliary nursing and<br />
aged care. We have no specialist stomal therapy nurse (STN)<br />
on staff, so embarking on further study would fulfil my own<br />
interest in the areas <strong>of</strong> continence, wound management and<br />
stomal therapy and ultimately benefit my employer. Working<br />
after hours in a busy hospital has its own set <strong>of</strong> idiosyncrasies,<br />
so undertaking clinical experience was going to be an enormous<br />
adjustment; to begin with I would be working in daylight hours.<br />
I was unsure what to expect from my clinical experiences. I<br />
was lucky to ultimately gain this experience in several different<br />
environments: the majority with an STN in a private hospital,<br />
a continence advisor in a public adult hospital, a continence<br />
advisor in a public continence clinic, an STN in a major<br />
metropolitan, adult, public hospital and an STN in a private<br />
hospital wound clinic. What I really needed to know was what<br />
was involved and how do they accomplish their role as an STN?<br />
It was most interesting to discuss all areas <strong>of</strong> stomal therapy<br />
practices, clinical practices, policy, process, education,<br />
job descriptions, autonomy and resources. Each venue had<br />
slightly different requirements but work practices were very<br />
similar. Observing how all these preceptors functioned was<br />
most interesting. They were autonomous, relaxed, friendly,<br />
informative, appreciative and pr<strong>of</strong>essional. Their individual<br />
responses to the constantly changing demands <strong>of</strong> the job was<br />
inspiring and something I would like to achieve. No single<br />
day could be replicated; the variety <strong>of</strong> clinical situations was<br />
continual. One client may present for preoperative education<br />
to have a stoma sited, to be prepared, full <strong>of</strong> questions with<br />
a support person. Another may present for exactly the same<br />
reason, but have spent an exhaustive day alone having tests and<br />
finding out they need to have immediate stoma surgery and are<br />
so fragile, closed and distraught that it is not possible for them to<br />
be dealt with the same way. Yet ultimately they will have similar<br />
needs. In the next moment you find yourself assessing pressure<br />
14 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
areas, teaching self-catheterisation or discharge planning to<br />
find a client along with their family with totally unrealistic<br />
expectations <strong>of</strong> their health management. They have not come<br />
to accept their change in health status and believe community<br />
services should do all the work, despite having shown great<br />
progress in learning to manage their changed health status.<br />
The STN’s level <strong>of</strong> advanced practice in their speciality role was<br />
evident when they slipped easily from one role to another. The<br />
scope and complexity <strong>of</strong> these roles was extensive, revealing to<br />
me the multifaceted skills I needed to achieve including:<br />
• advanced clinical knowledge, caring for any wound<br />
presentation, skin affliction and continence issues<br />
• stoma management expertise<br />
• teaching and sharing <strong>of</strong> related knowledge in a variety <strong>of</strong><br />
setting to clients, community, family, peers and students<br />
• counselling and negotiating<br />
• keeping up to date with research, sharing and undertaking<br />
relevant studies.<br />
The role <strong>of</strong> the STN includes being:<br />
• an appliance expert, requiring creativity to find the most<br />
successful appliance<br />
• an administrator, ensuring that their service is accountable,<br />
appropriate and complies with corporate requirements<br />
• a consultant, using the opportunity as a specialist nurse to<br />
consult and refer as necessary<br />
• a resource person or mentor to those less experienced<br />
• an advocate for those who require support and have the<br />
courage to speak up when required and finally; change<br />
agent.<br />
I was impressed to see how different institutions approached<br />
tasks, used varied paperwork and products, each influenced<br />
by their own philosophies and practices, backed by research<br />
to form evidence-based care protocols. As an example, one<br />
hospital based their pressure sore management on the Waterlow<br />
Pressure Sore Prevention/Treatment Policy as cited in Carville 1 .<br />
Some <strong>of</strong> these tools and approaches alerted me to changes that<br />
could be beneficial in my workplace if adapted to suit. I also<br />
noted that the STN <strong>of</strong>fice library in the public hospital was<br />
magnificent and I thought how lucky those STNs were to have<br />
such accessible resources available, whereas my access was very<br />
limited in hands-on resources. I had never really thought about<br />
evidence-based practice in any depth and am now so much<br />
more aware <strong>of</strong> the necessity for nurses to be accountable for<br />
their practice, knowing why they are performing a task or using<br />
a certain product and that their reasons are based on evidence
not the vagueness <strong>of</strong> nursing know-how or because ‘that is how<br />
we do it here’. I have also found that this increased knowledge<br />
base is empowering and makes work so much more interesting.<br />
I had always thought that undertaking some kind <strong>of</strong> research<br />
would be complicated but was really interested when my<br />
preceptor explained to me how one <strong>of</strong> her associates (a fellow<br />
STN student doing this course) was undertaking some research<br />
using a recently released urostomy appliance on one <strong>of</strong> her<br />
clients for that company’s representative. It was also interesting<br />
to find myself involved in the evaluation <strong>of</strong> wound products;<br />
the corporate contracts for wound products were up for renewal<br />
for my employer and all hospitals were sent many products<br />
to evaluate in practice, then complete and return a feedback<br />
form. I was pleased to receive an email this week with the list<br />
<strong>of</strong> successful products now available on contract “that had been<br />
extensively evaluated” and understand that these products<br />
have been chosen as the most suitable to meet our needs, not as<br />
I might have thought silently to myself in the past as providing<br />
the best deal.<br />
I was fascinated by the variety <strong>of</strong> products and literature<br />
available (continence, wound and stomal therapy), finding great<br />
satisfaction as my studies progressed that I was able to assess a<br />
need, find then use, combine and adapt appropriate products<br />
or literature in a management plan. The literature available<br />
is diverse and freely available from company representatives,<br />
packaging, internet sites and journal articles. This literature<br />
becomes invaluable when educating clients whether teaching<br />
pelvic floor exercises to open transurethral resection <strong>of</strong> prostate<br />
patients, caring for a new ostomate, providing clients with<br />
information where they can obtain supplies, available support<br />
services or improving one’s own knowledge.<br />
What I really enjoyed most was the interaction with clients. I<br />
have always enjoyed nursing, being able to share in the process<br />
<strong>of</strong> supporting a client to progress from a state <strong>of</strong> being unwell,<br />
through to achieving a state <strong>of</strong> wellness and being able to<br />
regain their autonomy, then ultimately be discharged. My most<br />
significant learning experience was being able to follow a stoma<br />
client from first contact, admission, into the operating theatre to<br />
observe the stoma formation, postoperative management and<br />
then through to discharge and follow-up after discharge. This<br />
opportunity allowed me to be involved in the continuum <strong>of</strong> care<br />
for a client, to see how all the different stages in a management<br />
plan progressed, and how important it is to thoroughly assess<br />
and monitor patient needs, abilities, environment, goals,<br />
resources and progress. The opportunity also made me realise<br />
how necessary it is, as a care provider, to provide a clear written<br />
or visual plan so that the client and their significant others know<br />
what is required <strong>of</strong> them, how, when and why it will happen,<br />
over what time period and what to expect from me the care<br />
provider or others involved in their management plan, so that<br />
they can refer to it should they become confused or forget. While<br />
visiting one hospital, I was impressed with their photographic<br />
care plan and did not realise when the STN was taking photos<br />
continually while I was changing a stoma appliance that these<br />
would later be downloaded to the patient’s individual care plan<br />
so that they could refer to their own individualised situation.<br />
The opportunity also to visit the operating theatre to watch<br />
the patient’s surgery was really beneficial as it gave me the<br />
opportunity to see and identify the anatomical changes that<br />
were being made, and understand how physically brutal this<br />
surgery was for the patient.<br />
Since there was no opportunity in my workplace to learn from an<br />
STN, I had to secure clinical placement from elsewhere. This was<br />
to become a most frustrating exercise while I eagerly approached<br />
all the AASTN preceptors listed in my city area and I received<br />
no response. So I explored alternative avenues and discovered<br />
through the college’s CNnect a fellow student who also worked<br />
for the same employer but at a different site that was fortunate<br />
to work with one <strong>of</strong> the listed AASTN preceptors. I followed her<br />
suggestion to approach the STN and was fortunate to benefit<br />
from a very meaningful, remarkable, motivating year under<br />
the guidance <strong>of</strong> a mentor who not only showed friendship, but<br />
shared freely her special knowledge and skills, and encouraged<br />
me to step out <strong>of</strong> my comfort zone. This relationship not only<br />
benefited me personally, but also fostered closer ties between<br />
hospitals as well. Interestingly, when I first mentioned to my<br />
colleagues that I had a desire to undertake some study in stomal<br />
therapy nursing; they politely acknowledged and looked at me<br />
a bit perplexed asking, why? As my study progressed, they<br />
became increasingly enthusiastic and approached me regularly<br />
for support <strong>of</strong> related issues and information in the wards, as<br />
the opportunity for a resource person at night is <strong>of</strong>ten a bonus.<br />
I have also noticed a subtle, positive change in my peers’<br />
attitudes as they realise with the new national registration and<br />
the necessity for earning CNE points how important continual<br />
education is. This has been supported by my employer, who<br />
is providing weekly, short, in-service opportunities in a great<br />
variety <strong>of</strong> topics where I have <strong>of</strong>fered to present.<br />
The completion <strong>of</strong> this course brings some anxiety as to where<br />
to now for me? Hopefully for now I can combine my current<br />
position, compound my recent knowledge and experience, to<br />
provide services that can be beneficial to my employer as the<br />
need arises. I was pleasantly surprised recently to be approached<br />
by one <strong>of</strong> the colorectal surgeons and acknowledgement was<br />
made <strong>of</strong> my recent studies with references that we need a<br />
full-time STN. This I found both exciting and daunting as<br />
introducing an in-house STN service was not something I had<br />
considered; but echoing in my head was an article I had read by J<br />
Davenport 2 about the establishment <strong>of</strong> a stomal therapy practice;<br />
it was known not to be impossible either.<br />
What I have drawn from my clinical visits over 12 months is<br />
that, while I can learn the foundations to becoming an STN<br />
and apply them in my clinical practice with confidence, it will<br />
take much longer to develop the level <strong>of</strong> finesse and experience<br />
required <strong>of</strong> an expert STN. I have also witnessed the value <strong>of</strong><br />
networking, motivating me to join the <strong>Australian</strong> <strong>Association</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses, The Continence Foundation <strong>of</strong><br />
Australia and <strong>Australian</strong> Nurses for Continence. I must admit<br />
I’ve been impressed and a little intimidated by the motivating,<br />
positive and pr<strong>of</strong>essional presence that these nurses portray<br />
as well as their obvious enthusiasm for their chosen specialist<br />
field. Through these memberships I have benefited from: some<br />
really informative education days, forums and meetings and<br />
the chance to sample and investigate multiple, new (to me)<br />
products. I have met company representatives, fellow students,<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 15
specialist nurses, other health pr<strong>of</strong>essionals and secured further<br />
opportunities for clinical placements.<br />
I cannot state what my supervisor’s views were about changes<br />
they noticed in me but they felt that my skills were at the very<br />
least developed. For me it was about the specific knowledge<br />
required to become a competent STN. I have noticed that with<br />
the increased understanding <strong>of</strong> continence, wound management<br />
and stomal therapy I have a more complete perception <strong>of</strong> issues<br />
and am able to confidently and aptly work through the process<br />
and address care <strong>of</strong> these clients with more competence. This<br />
knowledge has also enabled me to educate and assist nursing<br />
staff at ward level to resolve some unusual issues.<br />
cASe STudy<br />
Throughout this case study the <strong>Australian</strong> Nursing Federation<br />
Competency Standards for the Advanced Registered Nurse 4 will be<br />
applied with the competency standard identified in bold and in brackets<br />
following the related action.<br />
A female was admitted on Friday afternoon from her nursing<br />
home with a history <strong>of</strong> fracturing her left clavicle two weeks ago.<br />
She had been treated at the local regional hospital and transferred<br />
to the medical ward <strong>of</strong> a metropolitan private hospital as they<br />
could not care for her because she had a fistula and they had<br />
no STN; neither did we! Upon arrival she was found to be in<br />
great discomfort and <strong>of</strong> limited manoeuvrability because <strong>of</strong><br />
the fracture and her large size. Her pain was managed and she<br />
was orientated then settled into the ward. Over the course <strong>of</strong><br />
the afternoon the surgical nurse unit manager (NUM) assessed<br />
the fistula, establishing it was an enterocutaneous fistula, and<br />
devised a dressing but did not record any management plan in<br />
the notes except under no circumstances remove the dressing,<br />
and measure then record all output carefully (5.1). Over the<br />
course <strong>of</strong> the evening, the dressing started to leak and the<br />
nursing staff dutifully reinforced the dressing with whatever<br />
would soak up the effluent. I (student STN) was contacted for<br />
advice at the commencement <strong>of</strong> my shift around 23.00 hours<br />
about the management <strong>of</strong> a fistula with a continuous flow (11.2).<br />
A check <strong>of</strong> the patient’s chart (5.1) did not mention wound<br />
management but alerted me to the fact that the patient had<br />
had extensive abdominal surgery over many years and that an<br />
intestinal fistula had spontaneously developed two weeks ago.<br />
The patient had a history <strong>of</strong> Crohns disease and surgical review<br />
(at another hospital) stated that nothing could be done for at<br />
least four months.<br />
When I arrived at the patient’s bedside with the night nurse I<br />
noted an obvious malodour and that the patient was in some<br />
distress, her abdomen was stained with excrement as were her<br />
hands and fingernails, with the fistula freely draining under<br />
the dressing down into her body folds and groin (1.4, 1.10). I<br />
introduced myself, donned some gloves, held her good hand,<br />
looked directly at her (1.6) and explained that I had come to<br />
see if we could devise an improved dressing for the fistula, and<br />
make her comfortable (4.1). Privacy was maintained. I continued<br />
to interact and involve the patient in what was happening and<br />
gain some insight into her history, but she was a terrible historian<br />
(1.8). Together the night nurse and I carefully removed the entire<br />
dressing, using principles <strong>of</strong> skin care to preserve skin integrity<br />
and assess the wound (4.2). The skin below the fistula was badly<br />
excoriated and had a small ulcer, but it was also noted that the<br />
16 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
fistula was on the right, lower corner <strong>of</strong> a square-shaped, healed<br />
wound that had the appearance <strong>of</strong> a window with wound mesh<br />
exposed in the healed suture line, giving it the appearance <strong>of</strong><br />
badly sewn, frilled lace on the upper and lower sill. Fortunately<br />
the integrity <strong>of</strong> these suture lines were fine and not inflamed,<br />
though the appearance was most unusual (1.10); the mesh was<br />
caked with a dry film. Using the principles <strong>of</strong> stomal therapy<br />
and wound care 1 , I devised a dressing plan that used protective<br />
care products (2.1), explaining my rationale to the night nurse<br />
as I went. (1.11, 14.2) The plan included protective film (Cavilon<br />
wipe), protective paste (Stomahesive Paste), protective powder<br />
(Stomahesive powder), adhesive barrier (Eakin Rings) and<br />
adhesive removal wipes to create minimal skin damage on<br />
removal <strong>of</strong> hydrocolloids. A hydrocolloid was used to protect<br />
the healed suture line (Comfeel plus) and finally the application<br />
<strong>of</strong> a cut-to-fit, drainable ostomy management appliance to<br />
contain exudate and odour. The patient was washed, her wet<br />
clothing and linen were changed, and she was repositioned for<br />
comfort <strong>of</strong> the left clavicle. I left the buzzer in the client’s reach<br />
and reinforced that she should use it if she had any concerns,<br />
wound leakage or further discomfort she should contact the<br />
nursing staff.<br />
I recorded my actions in the patient’s progress notes, making<br />
careful record <strong>of</strong> my wound assessment and dressing plan<br />
and discussed the patient’s care with the nursing staff. I also<br />
discussed measures (4.7) with nursing staff that they should be<br />
aware <strong>of</strong>, such as hydration, electrolyte imbalances, thickening<br />
agents (but these may be <strong>of</strong> doubtful use) and the use <strong>of</strong> low<br />
suction connected to the pouching system if the drainage<br />
continues to defeat the appliance seal 3 . Nursing staff expressed<br />
that they would like further in-service (13.2) relating to troubleshooting<br />
stomal therapy dressings and the risks associated with<br />
Crohns disease. I agreed to organise this with the nurse educator<br />
as soon as possible. A courtesy email was made to the surgical<br />
NUM as I would be <strong>of</strong>f duty when she returned to duty. I<br />
reminded staff to contact me if they had any further issues; they<br />
had my pager number. I checked in with the patient later in the<br />
shift (3.5) to find her settled and dozing.<br />
This experience left me most troubled because I had so many<br />
unanswered questions about my patient’s management such<br />
as wound healing, foreign objects in healed wounds, further<br />
management options, ethical and social issues which I have<br />
explored further (1.9) by discussing with medical personnel (6.3)<br />
and peers (8.1), reading journal articles (1.7), using the internet<br />
(relevant articles I have given to ward to refer to [14.1]) and look<br />
forward to discussing with my preceptor and STNs at the next<br />
AASTN Q meeting. Of course patient confidentiality will be<br />
maintained at all times.<br />
refereNceS<br />
1. Carville K. Wound care manual, 5th edn. Osborne Park, WA: Silver<br />
Chain Foundation, 2005.<br />
2. Davenport J. Establishment <strong>of</strong> a stomal therapy practice: A<br />
retrospective. Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia 2002; 22(2)33–36.<br />
3. Toth P, Hocevar B & Landis-Erdman J. Fistula Management. In:<br />
Colwell J, Goldberg M & Carmel J. Fecal & Urinary Diversions<br />
Management Principles. Missouri: Mosby Inc, 2004.<br />
4. <strong>Australian</strong> Nursing Federation. Competency standards for nurses in<br />
general practice. Advanced registered nurses. Melbourne: ANF, 2005.
Reflective essay<br />
Katie Jane Bird<br />
INTroducTIoN<br />
This reflective essay will demonstrate my journey from a<br />
beginning stomal therapist practitioner to an advanced<br />
practitioner. It will provide different examples and experiences<br />
that have been significant to my individual journey. The<br />
<strong>Australian</strong> Nursing Federation Competency Standards for the<br />
Advanced Registered Nurse 1 will be applied throughout by<br />
the competency standard identified in bold and in brackets<br />
following the related action. Each point <strong>of</strong> the competency<br />
standard will be allocated a corresponding number, for example<br />
competency one, point three will be 1.3.<br />
reflecTIve exPerIeNce<br />
I first met Mr Kat on the ward on a Sunday while I was the<br />
clinical nurse in charge <strong>of</strong> the shift. He was transferred from ICU<br />
day two post-emergency Hartman’s procedure for perforated<br />
diverticulitis. I introduced myself to the patient and then the<br />
ICU nurse handed over to me and showed me Mr Kat’s stoma.<br />
The stoma was covered in a dark red blood clot so was not<br />
visible (4.1, 4.6). On my questioning, the ICU nurse said she<br />
thought the stoma had always looked like that but she could not<br />
be sure (5.1, 6.7). The patient’s notes did not give any further<br />
information (1.1, 1.3, 1.8, 1.9, 5.1). Blackley2 states a stoma should<br />
be inspected as soon as possible after the operation to make<br />
baseline observations. This includes ensuring the colour <strong>of</strong> the<br />
stoma is bright to dark red to indicate adequate blood supply<br />
(6.2). I decided to do a closer inspection myself (7.2). Mr Kat was<br />
awake and alert so I explained my role as a clinical nurse for the<br />
ward and a stomal therapist. I asked him if I could have a better<br />
look at his stoma because <strong>of</strong> the clot and the need to check blood<br />
supply (1.10). He was happy for me to proceed. I discovered the<br />
clot would not be dislodged easily and I could still not view the<br />
stoma (1.7, 8.1). I was not happy to continue to try and remove<br />
the clot as I did not know where the blood had come from or<br />
if I would disrupt something. I did not wish to do any harm<br />
(1.6, 3.2, 3.3). I opted to ring the on-call surgical registrar for<br />
advice; coincidently the patient was on her team (6.3, 6.6). The<br />
registrar agreed it was important to view the stoma and together<br />
we removed the clot to reveal a healthy, pink, moist stoma. I<br />
informed Mr Kat <strong>of</strong> the end result and documented my actions<br />
in the progress notes.<br />
This was my first experience <strong>of</strong> dealing with an abnormality<br />
in a postoperative stoma independently. I felt a sense <strong>of</strong><br />
accomplishment that day as I realised I was able to adapt<br />
my practice and integrate the theory I had learned and prior<br />
experiences to competently and confidently advocate for my<br />
patient’s best interests (3.5).<br />
Mr Kat’s recovery started well, he was receptive to learning about<br />
his stoma and actively took part in his cares (6.6). Mr Kat chose a<br />
two-piece appliance. I chose a base plate with slight convexity, as<br />
his stoma was retracting, with a drainable bag until the output<br />
thickened. Both <strong>of</strong> these measures were working well. I was still<br />
doing most <strong>of</strong> the care with Mr Kat verbally instructing me as he<br />
watched in a mirror (6.6). One morning while the doctors were<br />
reviewing Mr Kat they came and got me to review Mr Kat’s<br />
appliance as there was a leakage issue. I discovered that one <strong>of</strong><br />
the senior nurses had removed the appliance as some leakage<br />
had occurred due to the faeces becoming more formed and<br />
pancaking under the base plate. Instead <strong>of</strong> replacing both the<br />
base plate and bag, she had placed just the bag directly over the<br />
stoma. I had assumed that the senior nurses on the ward would<br />
be familiar with a two-piece appliance. This incident showed I<br />
was wrong and needed to do a teaching session with the staff<br />
(9.1, 9.4, 9.5). I approached the nurse unit manager (NUM) <strong>of</strong><br />
the ward and explained that I would like to do an in-service<br />
and the reason why. She agreed and we made an appropriate<br />
time and I did it the following afternoon after the nurses had<br />
handover (13.1, 13.2, 14.2). I chose this time so I would have as<br />
many staff present as possible. There was a good mix <strong>of</strong> junior<br />
and senior staff. I took along different stomal appliances and<br />
showed them how they worked and let them have a play. I<br />
asked that they share the information with staff who were not<br />
present and reminded them to involve the patient with their<br />
stomal care. I asked if they had ay questions and let them know<br />
I was always available for support (11.2, 11.3, 15.1). The session<br />
took approximately five minutes and I feel it was effective as a<br />
repeat incident has not occurred again. Feedback from the staff<br />
was positive (9.6). As Mr Kat had chosen his appliance I started<br />
to prepare him for discharge from the stomal perspective. While<br />
I was filling out the forms for him to join the Stoma <strong>Association</strong>,<br />
I discovered he did not have a Medicare card or health insurance<br />
and was waiting to apply for permanent residency. Mr Kat and<br />
his wife were from South Africa. This was all unfamiliar ground<br />
for me so I started to figure out what I could do and what<br />
implications there were going to be for Mr Kat.<br />
The first thing I did was ring the Stoma <strong>Association</strong> (5.1, 5.2,<br />
5.3, 7.28.1). They told me Mr Kat would need to get his stomal<br />
supplies directly from the company and pay for them himself.<br />
I then rang the company <strong>of</strong> his appliance and they gave me<br />
prices and a sales phone number for Mr Kat to call for ordering.<br />
They also told me about a sample pack <strong>of</strong> the chosen appliance<br />
that I could get for Mr Kat free <strong>of</strong> charge so I organised that. I<br />
relayed all this information to Mr Kat and asked his permission<br />
to contact the social worker, which he agreed to (6.6). I rang the<br />
social worker who saw Mr Kat and his wife the next day and<br />
throughout the rest <strong>of</strong> his hospital stay. I continued to liaise<br />
with the social worker and in the process learnt much about<br />
the finances <strong>of</strong> staying in hospital (5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7,<br />
6.3, 8.1). Because Mr Kat ended up having an extended stay, I<br />
continued to use the stomal department’s stock and organised<br />
that on discharge I would give him additional stock to take<br />
home (7.1). Because the appliance Mr Kat had chosen was<br />
working so well and he was happy with it, it did not occur to me<br />
that I should consider looking at a more cost-effective appliance.<br />
When the stomal therapist nurse took over Mr Kat’s care she<br />
did change his appliance purely for the reduction in cost. On<br />
reflection it reminds me to think outside the box.<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 17
The next learning curve Mr Kat gave me was when the proximal<br />
end <strong>of</strong> his abdominal suture line started showing signs <strong>of</strong> local<br />
infection. Carville 3 gives signs <strong>of</strong> local infection as pain, heat,<br />
oedema, erythema and exudate, either a change in amount<br />
or type. The proximal end <strong>of</strong> the wound had increased pain,<br />
erythematic, purulent exudate and was beginning to dehisce<br />
(1.4, 1.11, 4.1, 6.2). I was able to communicate my concerns to<br />
his treating team and they reviewed it straight away (5.2, 5.3,<br />
5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 7.2). They removed the staples and opened the<br />
proximal end up. I did an initial wound assessment and took<br />
a swab for pathology, all <strong>of</strong> which I documented (1.10). The<br />
consultant stated he wanted a vacuum assisted closure (VAC ® )<br />
dressing applied. I felt the wound could be effectively managed<br />
by a hydr<strong>of</strong>ibre dressing like Aquacel packing and explained my<br />
rationale, but the consultant still wanted a VAC ® dressing (1.4,<br />
1.6, 1.11, 3.2, 4.4, 5.4, 6.4, 11.2). I explained the VAC ® dressing<br />
to Mr Kat and applied it to the wound (6.6). Two days later<br />
when I reviewed the wound with the doctor’s agreement, the<br />
VAC ® dressing was discontinued and the wound managed with<br />
Aquacel packing. On reflection, this experience highlighted to<br />
me that I am comfortable expressing and viewing my opinions<br />
with all members <strong>of</strong> the multidisciplinary team that I work with.<br />
Even if we do not always agree, we have the mutual respect for<br />
each other that allows us to comfortably question each other,<br />
which in turn helps us reflect on our own practice and ensure<br />
best practice is maintained (11.1).<br />
A PoSITIve GAIN<br />
One <strong>of</strong> the most relevant insights I have had has been about<br />
the role <strong>of</strong> leadership in general nursing and in the context <strong>of</strong><br />
stomal therapy. When asked to submit an essay about a chosen<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional issue in stomal therapy nursing I chose leadership.<br />
I chose leadership because I had a desire to increase my<br />
knowledge in this area as I had always felt it was an important<br />
component <strong>of</strong> nursing but I could not grasp the concept in<br />
relation to myself (8.1).<br />
My journey began with the learning guide then reading the<br />
applicable resources, and then began the research (8.4, 10.1, 10.2,<br />
10.3). I looked at research that was specific to nursing and other<br />
areas like business and personal growth. The research helped<br />
me to identify traits <strong>of</strong> leadership in my colleagues, my past<br />
and present employers and, most surprisingly, in myself. The<br />
realisation that I may be viewed as a leader and a role model to<br />
others gave me a positive feeling (8.4).<br />
I began analysing my interactions with others and discussed<br />
the issue with my mentor (whom I view as a leader) (8.4). This<br />
insight impacted my practice by giving me the knowledge that<br />
the things I do in my career will not only affect me but others<br />
around me. It is my responsibility as an advanced practising<br />
nurse to make this a positive effect.<br />
I am also pleased to say my peers read my finished essay, all<br />
enjoyed it and took something from it (12.2,13.1, 14.1, 14.2). It<br />
was also accepted for publication in the Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong><br />
Australia, September 2009 4 , after I submitted it on the advice <strong>of</strong><br />
my tutor (12.2).<br />
18 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
During my clinical placement I rediscovered the importance<br />
and helpfulness <strong>of</strong> relating theory to practice. Because the area<br />
<strong>of</strong> stomal therapy nursing, especially the continence component,<br />
was all relatively new to me it took a while for the theory to fall<br />
into place. Prior to starting my placement with the continence<br />
nurse advisor (CNA) I completed the recommended readings,<br />
worked my way through the learning guide, accessed the<br />
Continence Foundation <strong>of</strong> Australia website and read the<br />
relevant sections from the prescribed text to help prepare me.<br />
But it was not until I was performing a vaginal examination<br />
and pelvic floor function test that I felt the theory link with the<br />
practice.<br />
Prior to doing the examination I prepared myself by doing the<br />
aforementioned reading, but I also discussed in depth with the<br />
CNA what she felt was best practice in comparison to what I had<br />
read. The CNA helped me identify the gaps in the theory and<br />
gave rationale if she did things differently; we also referred to<br />
the hospital policies and guidelines (7.1, 7.3, 7.4). Because <strong>of</strong> our<br />
discussions, the CNA identified that she would like to increase<br />
her knowledge and competence with an assessment tool used<br />
for vaginal examination <strong>of</strong> pelvic floor function.<br />
A truly positive gain throughout this journey has been the<br />
positive recognition from my colleagues (11.1). When I took on<br />
the role <strong>of</strong> acting stomal therapist, it astounded me how others<br />
readily accepted me in the role and <strong>of</strong>fered support. With the<br />
role came the responsibility to provide safe and accurate advice<br />
and knowledge surrounding all areas <strong>of</strong> stomal therapy nursing<br />
to my colleagues and patients. During this time I learnt to use all<br />
the available recourses to the greatest advantage (8.1).<br />
Working in this role gave me the opportunity to build therapeutic<br />
relationships based on mutual respect with members <strong>of</strong> the<br />
multidisciplinary team (11.1). I remember many occasions where<br />
one day I may be asking the consultant about a retracted stoma<br />
and the next day the consultant was asking my advice on a<br />
dehisced abdominal sutra line (11.3, 13.1, 14.2, 15.2). This mutual<br />
respect enabled me to articulate the care requirements for my<br />
patients and to actively advocate for them (5.6).<br />
PAST To PreSeNT<br />
The Graduate Certificate in <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nursing course<br />
goal is to cultivate excellence in the delivery <strong>of</strong> nursing care to<br />
people <strong>of</strong> all ages with a stoma, wound or incontinence, through<br />
the promotion <strong>of</strong> partnerships, encompassing the client, family/<br />
carer and the multidisciplinary healthcare team 5 . I believe I<br />
have achieved this goal which is evidenced by my self-appraisal<br />
against the educational and occupational outcomes that are<br />
listed alongside the course goal. Since beginning this course, I<br />
have become more aware <strong>of</strong> my role and others around me and<br />
how I can influence my patient’s outcomes.<br />
I have learnt to collaborate information from many different<br />
sources to enable me to better advocate and assist my patients (5,<br />
6). An example <strong>of</strong> this is when I was providing care for a patient<br />
post-Hartman’s procedure and we were having multiple leakage<br />
issues with the chosen appliance and her skin integrity was being<br />
compromised. At this early stage <strong>of</strong> my training I felt I lacked<br />
sufficient knowledge to deal with this issue and at the time I felt<br />
quiet overwhelmed and inadequate. So I decided to ask for help<br />
and I quickly learnt that there were many different areas that I
could approach for this. I spoke with other nursing colleagues, I<br />
spoke to one <strong>of</strong> the company representatives <strong>of</strong> stomal products<br />
and I spoke to the treating team (4, 5, 6, 7, 8.1). Throughout this<br />
I maintained open communication with the patient and their<br />
family to give them a feeling <strong>of</strong> acknowledgement and active<br />
participation (6.6).<br />
Throughout my stomal training it has become more evident as I<br />
continue this journey that patients and family first (PAFF) play<br />
a major role (2.1). I have only just become aware <strong>of</strong> this term<br />
but realised when I heard it how much it impacts on stomal<br />
therapy nursing (2.1, 8.3). The patient discussed earlier with the<br />
leakage issues is a good example <strong>of</strong> PAFF. I actively sought out<br />
her family and made my visits at corresponding times when<br />
they would be present. Education was given to both the patient<br />
and the family. I believe this support and involvement from her<br />
family enabled her to cope more effectively, especially when we<br />
were dealing with the leakage issues.<br />
When I first began this course I had ward experience <strong>of</strong> dealing<br />
with stomal patients and very limited experience <strong>of</strong> the actual<br />
role <strong>of</strong> the stomal nurse. At the beginning I thought it was<br />
defined as just caring for patients with stomas. I remember<br />
while I was on clinical placement with the stomal therapist<br />
and a ward ringing her to ask advice about a dehisced suture<br />
line that was having heavy output. I asked the stomal therapist<br />
why they would call her and not the wound team especially as<br />
there was no stoma involved. As she explained the rationale to<br />
me my whole conception <strong>of</strong> the role <strong>of</strong> a stomal therapist nurse<br />
changed. That moment made me realise how diverse the role is<br />
and how much it could <strong>of</strong>fer me.<br />
I believe I am now practising as an expert practitioner. This is<br />
defined by Benner 6 as having an intuitive grasp <strong>of</strong> situations<br />
and not requiring analytical rules or guidelines to facilitate<br />
this understanding. Important traits I attribute to an advanced<br />
practising nurse or expert practitioner is someone who uses<br />
their resources to their advantage. It is not a nurse who knows<br />
all the answers but one who recognises their own knowledge<br />
deficits and is comfortable to ask for direction and clarification<br />
as required. It is a nurse who is active in self-reflection.<br />
On my reflection and from taking into account the feedback I<br />
obtained from my clinical placements and working with various<br />
clinical nurse specialists, I have identified some areas I wish<br />
to further develop (9.6). Firstly I would like to become more<br />
proactive in the area <strong>of</strong> stomal therapy by attending conferences<br />
and seminars (12.1). I have taken a small step towards this by<br />
attending an education session about new stomal products<br />
outside work time (12.1). By doing this in my own time it<br />
demonstrates commitment to my ongoing education. I would<br />
also like to further develop my interpersonal skills with members<br />
<strong>of</strong> the multidisciplinary team and clients (11.1, 11.2). I believe<br />
this is an area in which I can always improve and as I do it will<br />
give me more confidence to interact with others. I feel by the<br />
development <strong>of</strong> these skills that I will be better equipped to be a<br />
role model for others. I hope to participate in more education on<br />
a larger scale in the future as well. This will be beneficial to my<br />
educational needs and those <strong>of</strong> others.<br />
coNcluSIoN<br />
This reflective essay has enabled me to conclude my journey.<br />
The course has been an enjoyable experience by allowing me to<br />
rediscover interests I wasn’t aware <strong>of</strong> or perhaps would not have<br />
considered. At times it has been challenging and my optimism<br />
wavered, but the feeling <strong>of</strong> achievement and completion always<br />
won in the end. I am glad I have completed this course as it<br />
opens many new opportunities for my career now and in the<br />
future.<br />
refereNceS<br />
1. <strong>Australian</strong> Nursing Federation. Competency standards for nurses in<br />
general practice. Advanced registered nurses. Melbourne, VIC: ANF,<br />
2005, pp. 2–7.<br />
2. Blackley P. Practical stoma wound and continence management.<br />
Australia: Research Publications, 1998.<br />
3. Carville K. Wound care manual, 5th edn. Australia: Silver Chain<br />
Nursing <strong>Association</strong>, 2007.<br />
4. Bird K. Clinical leadership. The Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia,<br />
2009; 29(3)6,8–9.<br />
5. New South Wales College <strong>of</strong> Nursing. Graduate certificate in stomal<br />
therapy nursing: course information book. Burwood: The College <strong>of</strong><br />
Nursing, 2009.<br />
6. Benner P. Interpretation <strong>of</strong> data. In: From novice to expert: Excellence<br />
and power in clinical nursing practice. Menlo Park, California:<br />
Addison-Wesley, 1984, pp. 17–34.<br />
AASTN MEMBERSHIP<br />
RENEWALS & REcEIPTS<br />
The AASTN Executive Committee would like to notify<br />
and/or remind all members:<br />
• Membership fees are due by the 31st <strong>December</strong> <strong>of</strong> each<br />
year (AASTN Constitution 2003).<br />
• Membership ceases if in arrears for 60 days. ie:<br />
1 March. (AASTN Constitution 2003).<br />
• Please note from 2011 AASTN will implement the late<br />
fee charge ($20) for members who renew later than<br />
1 April.<br />
• Late fees DO NOT APPLY to new members applying<br />
after 30th March.<br />
• AASTN’s preferred method <strong>of</strong> fee payment is by direct<br />
banking. Please consider this payment method. Your<br />
membership ID (MID) and surname should be included<br />
in the payment description for easy identification.<br />
• from 2011 receipts will not be issued unless the<br />
request is indicated on the renewal form. Preferred<br />
format <strong>of</strong> issue will be via email. Please ensure your<br />
provided email address is current.<br />
This notification by The Executive Committee has been<br />
prompted by the large number <strong>of</strong> AASTN members<br />
renewing late into the membership year, and increasing<br />
postage costs.<br />
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. �<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 19
A bag is a bag, is a bag. Right?<br />
At Coloplast, we don’t think so...<br />
That’s because we asked STNs from Australia and around the world how we<br />
could make our range <strong>of</strong> ostomy appliances even better. The result: a bag and<br />
baseplate that represent the very latest in ostomy technology; an appliance that<br />
is secure, comfortable, reliable, and which keeps skin healthy.<br />
The SenSura range from Coloplast is one <strong>of</strong> the ways we’re working hard to help<br />
you do more.<br />
Coloplast develops products and services that make life easier for people with very personal and private medical conditions. Working closely with the<br />
people who use our products, we create solutions that are sensitive to their special needs. We call this intimate healthcare. Our business includes<br />
ostomy care, urology and continence care and wound and skin care. We operate globally and employ more than 7,000 people.<br />
The Coloplast logo is a registered trademark <strong>of</strong> Coloplast A/S. OST 064 05.10 © 2009-11. All rights reserved Coloplast A/S, 3050 Humlebæk,<br />
Denmark. SenSura is a trademark <strong>of</strong> Coloplast A/S or related companies pending registration. © 2006-02.
SenSura 1-piece system<br />
Recommend SenSura.<br />
Designed by <strong>Australian</strong>s, SenSura is the first clinically proven ostomy<br />
appliance that maximises all the key features <strong>of</strong> a superior baseplate for<br />
your patients:<br />
• Is flexible enough to follow their natural body movements, helping them feel<br />
more comfortable.<br />
• Can be removed in one piece, minimising residue and pain.<br />
• Is resistant to erosion, protecting their skin from stomal output, reducing<br />
skin problems.<br />
• Promotes healthy skin by absorbing excess perspiration without loosening.<br />
• Sticks firmly and won’t loosen, preventing leakage.<br />
For more information Freecall 1800 333 317<br />
or email au.care@coloplast.com<br />
SenSura Click 2-piece system SenSura Flex 2-piece system<br />
Coloplast Pty Ltd<br />
33 Gilby Road<br />
Mount Waverley VIC 3149<br />
ABN 57 054 949 692<br />
www.coloplast.com.au
Reflective essay<br />
Colleen Pope<br />
This article was written as an assignment for the Graduate<br />
Certificate in <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nursing and it may help other<br />
student nurses as an example <strong>of</strong> how to write a reflective essay.<br />
The <strong>Australian</strong> Nursing Federation Competency Standards for<br />
the Advanced Registered Nurse 1 will be applied throughout<br />
with the competency standard identified in bold and in brackets<br />
following the related action.<br />
Reflection is defined as a serious thought or consideration<br />
and to be reflective is to be thoughtful 2 (Oxford Dictionary).<br />
An important part <strong>of</strong> my practice is considering my actions<br />
in relation to patient outcomes and my responsibility towards<br />
the implementation <strong>of</strong> effective treatments, in my role as a<br />
stomal therapy nurse (STN) and in all my nursing roles (8.3,<br />
8.4). The Code <strong>of</strong> Ethics for Nurses states that fundamental<br />
responsibilities are to promote health, to prevent illness, to<br />
restore health and alleviate suffering 3 . Sometime during my<br />
initial education I was taught that the aim should be: to do good<br />
not harm, and I have adopted this as my personal philosophy.<br />
This requires being informed with the latest best practice<br />
information and acknowledging the person you are treating and<br />
their expectations.<br />
An experience during my clinical placement was food for<br />
thought. A male paraplegic, Indigenous person had suffered a<br />
full-thickness burn to his foot. He suggested that if amputation<br />
would hasten his discharge, that would be his option because<br />
his mate was at home alone. When asked about “his mate” he<br />
told us it was his dog, his only friend in the world. His wound,<br />
although important to us, was less significant in his life (1.4).<br />
The evaluation <strong>of</strong> clinical practice is a pivotal part <strong>of</strong> delivering<br />
quality patient care and provides assurance that patient needs<br />
have been met 4 . “To act confidently, competently and creatively<br />
we need to reflect on our caring intentions, the ends we have<br />
in mind and the means we might choose in order to achieve<br />
them” 5 . Daily experiences build on an individual’s body <strong>of</strong><br />
knowledge and comparing these outcomes with those <strong>of</strong> others<br />
is a way <strong>of</strong> learning and evaluating. I <strong>of</strong>ten compare myself<br />
unfavourably and sometimes wish I was less critical <strong>of</strong> myself<br />
in work situations. I want to be as successful as my fellow STNs<br />
and feel competent in their company.<br />
I have been working for some time relieving the STN in the<br />
hospital in which I am employed. I have made every effort to<br />
employ evidence-based practice because that is part <strong>of</strong> “doing<br />
good” ( 1.6 ). However, I felt that the time had come to legitimise<br />
my practice by undertaking a formal course in stomal therapy<br />
nursing and subjecting myself to peer review (2.1, 2.2). “The<br />
STN evaluates and reflects on own practice and engages in peer<br />
review” 6 . I have been fortunate in being mentored by a STN who<br />
22 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
has the appropriate attitudes as outlined by Pellatt 7 , “mentors<br />
are accountable for both the safety <strong>of</strong> patients and clients and for<br />
the development <strong>of</strong> student competence”. There also needs to be<br />
a high degree <strong>of</strong> trust between mentor and mentee.<br />
During my clinical placement for this course, my preceptor<br />
has facilitated and supervised my clinical experience, a role<br />
described by Busen and Engebretson 8 , showing me the same<br />
accountability and pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism. I realised that there is<br />
a difference <strong>of</strong> available resources between the private and<br />
public hospital systems and <strong>of</strong>ten a slightly different approach<br />
is required. The lower socio-economic situation <strong>of</strong> the patients<br />
(during my placement) caused me to re-evaluate my approach<br />
to patient education (1.10, 1.11). In the private sector, we have<br />
the luxury <strong>of</strong> time to provide education postoperatively for<br />
our stoma patients. A man whom I sited for a non-functioning<br />
ileostomy would spend only 2–3 days in hospital after his<br />
surgery. This meant that the preoperative education I provided<br />
had to be more intense. I had to ensure more extensive written<br />
information was given at the pre-admission visit so that my<br />
patient could begin to process this information before the<br />
anaesthetic and surgery took effect (4.1). Johnson and Porrett 9<br />
advise that patients might find it useful to have written<br />
information. A folder with leaflets and brochures relating to:<br />
stoma function, diet, skin care, sexual activity and appliance<br />
scheme was given as well as a demonstration <strong>of</strong> available<br />
products (4.7). His previous history <strong>of</strong> inguinal and umbilical<br />
hernia and the need to wear a hernia support garment were also<br />
discussed (6.5). His wife was included in this education session.<br />
I felt relieved that the patient had not come alone, as support<br />
at home would be essential with the reduced hospital stay. I<br />
reflected on how I would address his postoperative education<br />
and realised that the ward staff must be well educated as<br />
they would play an important role in his education (3.1, 13.2).<br />
Norman and McCaughan 10 discuss education <strong>of</strong> clinical nurses<br />
to perform after-hours patient education and stoma siting. This<br />
method could be used to educate ward nurses to teach pouch<br />
emptying and changing, for the patient after hours. Our stomal<br />
therapy department has a specific nurse-orientated instruction<br />
page for patients who are treated outside the colorectal ward.<br />
This is effective. I have experienced this type <strong>of</strong> situation<br />
myself as a ward nurse who provided after-hours siting, and<br />
troubleshooting for difficult to manage stomas (8.2).<br />
A female mental health patient presented with extensive ulcers,<br />
which were exacerbated by the fact that she had not been<br />
brought to the clinic for her previous appointment. The ulcers<br />
had gone untreated for five days. The bandages were soiled,<br />
and due to the bottle shape <strong>of</strong> her legs, were inappropriate and<br />
had slipped down around the ankles cutting into the already
*HOS-GON - NO-SMELLS!<br />
Nursing Homes, where care <strong>of</strong> frail incontinent people is<br />
important. Removes & prevents odours, which upset staff,<br />
relatives & residents.<br />
120ml: #2400. 1ltr: #2404. 5ltr: #2407.<br />
*HOS-COLOGY - NO-SMELLS!<br />
Oncology & Palliative Care. Odours <strong>of</strong> fungating &<br />
necrotic tissue. The answer to mal-odours & wound care,<br />
needing better management.<br />
120ml: #3600. ltr: #3604. 5ltr: #3607.<br />
*HOS-TOGEL - NO-SMELLS!<br />
Aged Care, Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology,<br />
Laboratories, Operating Theatres.<br />
500gram: #3300.<br />
Available on: CAAS & D.V.A. Schemes.<br />
your Safe, Economical<br />
& Effective way<br />
to Neutralise smells.<br />
FUTURE<br />
ENVIRONMENTAL<br />
SERVICES.<br />
*HOS-TOMA - NO-SMELLS!<br />
Dropper & spray packs for Ostomate, Hirshsprungs, I.A.,<br />
Crohn, Colitis, Spina Bifida, & I.B., patients. Wonderful<br />
when sprayed while demonstrating and instructing patients.<br />
For those who have returned to the work force or lead an<br />
active social life, spray packs are available from Ostomy<br />
<strong>Association</strong>s on a cash sale basis.<br />
45ml: #1001. 120ml: #1000. 500ml: #1002. 1ltr: #1004. 5ltr: #1007.<br />
*HOS-TOMA - NO-gas!<br />
Pumps pack to prevent the build up <strong>of</strong> gas in the appliance,<br />
and neutralise mal-odours at the same time.<br />
250ml Pump: #1103.<br />
*HOS-TOMA - lube!<br />
Monthly entitlement under the <strong>Stomal</strong> Appliance Scheme:<br />
Two 45ml. Dropper bottles <strong>of</strong> *HOS-TOMA - NO-SMELLS!<br />
and One 250ml. *HOS-TOMA - NO-GAS!<br />
and One 250ml. *HOS-TOMA - lube!<br />
if needed.<br />
Deodorises & inhibits bacterial growth Stops matter<br />
adhering inside the appliance.<br />
250ml Pump: #1203<br />
TOTALLY AUSTRALIAN OWNED<br />
PO BOX 155, Caulfield Sth. VIC. 3162 AUSTRALIA.<br />
PH: 03 9569 2329 FX: 03 9569 2319<br />
E-mail: health@futenv.com.au Web: www.futenv.com.au<br />
Contact us for information, literature, a starter pack, material safety data sheets, or to place an order.<br />
Trial packs NOW available.
fragile skin (5.5). After addressing the issue <strong>of</strong> the inappropriate<br />
bandaging, (13.2), my preceptor and I collaborated in the<br />
dressing <strong>of</strong> the wounds (5.1). It was clear that additional support<br />
was required to ensure adequate treatment was provided for<br />
our patient. Her carer was contacted to emphasise her needs<br />
and ensure future appointments were kept, she was provided<br />
with a meal and a taxi was organised to take her home (6.5, 6.6).<br />
The next appointment was kept and our patient was admitted<br />
for intravenous antibiotics after extensive collaboration on the<br />
part <strong>of</strong> my preceptor (5.4). This provided me with an example<br />
<strong>of</strong> advocacy in action. Beyea 11 states that, practising registered<br />
nurses (RNs) have the authority and the responsibility to act in<br />
their patients’ best interest.<br />
My primary mentor also provided me with examples <strong>of</strong> advocacy<br />
during the extensive hours I spent working with her equipping<br />
me with the knowledge to become an advocate myself. Recently<br />
a male patient had undergone an extensive debridement <strong>of</strong> a<br />
necrotic perineal lesion, including debridement <strong>of</strong> part <strong>of</strong> the<br />
anal sphincter. After consultation with the infectious diseases<br />
consultant (ID) and the surgeon (5.1) I attempted to apply a<br />
suction dressing to the area. However, due to the proximity<br />
<strong>of</strong> the wound to the anus, it was impossible to obtain a seal<br />
without covering the anus. The patient was ventilated in<br />
intensive care and neutropaenic as a result <strong>of</strong> treatment for<br />
lymphoma; therefore the friability <strong>of</strong> the rectum prevented the<br />
use <strong>of</strong> rectal tubes to control faecal output. Containment devices<br />
were also inappropriate as they would not stick. This man was<br />
also receiving alimental feeding through a nasojejunal tube.<br />
This was causing diarrhoea so the wound was being constantly<br />
contaminated. After considering many dressing options,<br />
discussion with my mentor and ostomy and wound care<br />
suppliers and reference to The Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia,<br />
World Council <strong>of</strong> Enterostomal Therapists Journal and online<br />
literature search (6.1) I approached the ID consultant regarding<br />
the possibility <strong>of</strong> a temporary stoma to facilitate wound healing.<br />
This took some courage as up till now I have played a minor role,<br />
always deferring to my mentor. I also realised that if I made a<br />
recommendation that was inappropriate, the patient could suffer<br />
(3.2). Vaartio, Leino-Kilpi, Saantera and Suominen 12 believe<br />
that the question <strong>of</strong> appropriateness <strong>of</strong> an action can only be<br />
answered by the patients who are supposed to benefit from it. I<br />
chose the ID consultant with whom to discuss this issue because<br />
he had the best overall knowledge <strong>of</strong> the patient’s condition and<br />
would not be biased towards surgical options (5.3). Meanwhile<br />
I prescribed dressings with a hypertonic saline-impregnated<br />
gauze twice daily and as required after bowel motions (4.7).<br />
This type <strong>of</strong> dressing promotes a cleansing effect on exuding,<br />
malodorous wounds, absorbs exudate and bacteria, promotes<br />
autolysis <strong>of</strong> slough and maintains a moist environment 13 . The<br />
ID consultant initially rejected the stoma idea, stating that he<br />
would be reluctant to recommend this action since the bowel<br />
was not a major factor in the patient’s current condition.<br />
However, as the patient’s general condition improved and it<br />
became evident that he was going to recover, this consultant<br />
and the surgeon agreed. He now has a temporary ileostomy<br />
and a negative pressure dressing, which is rapidly contracting<br />
his wound and maintaining a base <strong>of</strong> clean granulation tissue,<br />
expected outcomes as described by Dyson 14 . As the debridement<br />
surgery involved part <strong>of</strong> the anal sphincter, the next issue will<br />
24 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
be continence (4.1). Intact sphincter function is essential to<br />
maintenance <strong>of</strong> continence 15 . I was concerned that the stoma<br />
might be reversed before investigations <strong>of</strong> sphincter control had<br />
been performed. The consultant involved is a general surgeon.<br />
I discussed this issue with him after careful consideration <strong>of</strong> the<br />
correct approach to use (5.4). He assured me that he is planning<br />
to refer to a colorectal surgeon for investigations.<br />
My involvement in the care <strong>of</strong> this patient has also required<br />
stoma education. His mental status has improved from<br />
unconsciousness to full awareness and participation in his<br />
daily care. He is now independently caring for his stoma,<br />
including the cutting out <strong>of</strong> the hole to accommodate the stoma<br />
because it is a “double-barrel”, oval shape. This single case has<br />
encompassed multiple dimensions <strong>of</strong> stomal therapy practice,<br />
including patient teaching, wound management, stoma care,<br />
continence management and the pr<strong>of</strong>essional responsibilities <strong>of</strong><br />
being a patient advocate and practising within one’s scope <strong>of</strong><br />
competence. Through the support <strong>of</strong> my mentor I have been able<br />
to play an influential role (5.5). “Effective clinical supervision<br />
can help to maintain the practitioner’s balance, and effectively<br />
facilitated reflective practice will stimulate self-awareness and<br />
personal growth, thus transforming the life and practice <strong>of</strong> the<br />
individual ” 16<br />
Treatment <strong>of</strong> a female patient who underwent a pelvic<br />
exenteration has allowed me to follow through multiple levels<br />
<strong>of</strong> care. I was asked to provide her pre-admission education for<br />
ileal conduit and colostomy (1.1, 1.3). Her husband was present<br />
during this education and on the day <strong>of</strong> admission when I<br />
answered their questions and sited her for both stomas. The<br />
surgery was performed on a Saturday. She spent two days in<br />
intensive care. I visited her next with the STN. Her colostomy<br />
was dusky. The surgeon was informed (7.2). Blackley 17 states<br />
that this is appropriate. The stents were visible in the urostomy,<br />
which was pink and had a satisfactory spout (1.5). Due to the loss<br />
<strong>of</strong> vascularity <strong>of</strong> the colostomy, the stoma became sloughy and<br />
the spout was no longer effective, which resulted in leaks when<br />
the colostomy was active. Both the urologist and gynaecologist<br />
were made aware <strong>of</strong> the situation (5.5). Both were reluctant to<br />
consider refashioning due to the complexity <strong>of</strong> the previous<br />
surgery. The problem <strong>of</strong> colostomy management had developed.<br />
The output was liquid so at an appropriate postoperative<br />
recovery stage when bowel function was confirmed, steps were<br />
taken to facilitate thickening <strong>of</strong> the stool (8.1). Benefibre and<br />
Loperamide were introduced. The fluid thickened but there<br />
were still leaks. My mentor and I tried several methods <strong>of</strong><br />
approach, including the use <strong>of</strong> seals, paste and convexity with<br />
a belt (13.1) until we reached a successful outcome. Although<br />
thicker, the output remained liquid. The concern was that after<br />
discharge when a firm stool developed, stenosis <strong>of</strong> the stoma<br />
might result in inability <strong>of</strong> the faeces to be expelled 17 . It was<br />
decided to introduce Codeine Phosphate to further thicken<br />
the faecal output, with the surgeon’s cooperation (6.4), to test<br />
the ability <strong>of</strong> the stoma to pass a thicker motion. I performed a<br />
digital examination <strong>of</strong> the stoma tract to identify any stenosis.<br />
None was identified. Digital dilatation may be helpful for stomal<br />
stenosis 18 . Codeine Phosphate was introduced, and as this can<br />
be used to control mild to moderate pain, the Endone which<br />
the patient had been taking was ceased. Codeine Phosphate
causes a decrease in gastrointestinal motility 19 , the desired effect<br />
in this case. This was explained to the ward nurses so that they<br />
understood the aim <strong>of</strong> treatment (14.1). When the desired result<br />
was apparent, the Loperamide was ceased because the Codeine<br />
produced a more satisfactory outcome (1.7). The faecal output<br />
was thick enough to facilitate management <strong>of</strong> the colostomy<br />
without leakage and the stoma continued to function. When she<br />
was ready for discharge, the stents were still in place. I contacted<br />
the urologist to inform him <strong>of</strong> the pending discharge (5.7)<br />
and was asked to remove the stents 17 after giving intravenous<br />
antibiotic cover. I worked with the ward nurse to ensure the<br />
antibiotics were given (5.5). I removed the stents according to<br />
instructions given on previous occasions (6.3). A graduate nurse<br />
who was working in the area asked to observe the procedure.<br />
I explained to her the principles as I worked (13.2). I also<br />
explained to the patient that she should observe for continued<br />
drainage <strong>of</strong> urine from the urostomy to ensure the ureters<br />
remained functional and to report fever, back pain, feeling<br />
unwell or blood in the urine (4.3). I documented the orders and<br />
signed for removal <strong>of</strong> the stents in the patient’s chart (3.1).<br />
During my development from clinical colorectal nurse to student<br />
STN, I have attended conferences, workshops and product<br />
launches (6.1, 6.2, 6.3). A very pr<strong>of</strong>essional case study was<br />
presented by a fellow student at one meeting, which impressed<br />
me with the quality and depth <strong>of</strong> knowledge displayed (10.5).<br />
I compared my own knowledge and realised the need to<br />
continually strive for improvement (2.2). However, the best<br />
learning experiences have been when I have been asked to<br />
provide education for others. I have given a presentation titled<br />
Stoma Products. Diverse Uses at a wound management course<br />
conducted yearly at our hospital by my mentor (STN ) (12.1).<br />
The basics had been formulated by another STN with whom I<br />
have worked. I expanded on this by adding some information<br />
and photographs <strong>of</strong> my own. I acknowledged her contribution<br />
(11.1) to the audience, which consisted <strong>of</strong> RNs and enrolled<br />
nurses (ENs) from our organisation and others, as well as the<br />
community, and sales representatives (13.1). This activity helped<br />
me gain confidence in my own knowledge and ability. I have<br />
recently given a presentation at a vascular workshop consisting<br />
<strong>of</strong> 40 delegates. My contribution was a 40-minute lecture on<br />
leg ulcers (13.2). This was an ideal learning experience for me,<br />
as I undertook extensive literature searches and compared our<br />
treatments with those described in the literature to ensure that<br />
the information I was giving was factual and relevant (10.2).<br />
I have also given an informal presentation relating to stoma<br />
care and the expectations placed on the ward EN to a group <strong>of</strong><br />
student ENs on placement in my workplace (14.2). My aim is to<br />
always be sure <strong>of</strong> the facts so that teaching others comes more<br />
easily.<br />
An issue <strong>of</strong> importance to me has been my integration into<br />
the pr<strong>of</strong>ession <strong>of</strong> STNs. A continuous process <strong>of</strong> development,<br />
internal discussion and external feedback shapes a pr<strong>of</strong>ession’s<br />
current identity 20 . This is evident in every meeting <strong>of</strong> these<br />
nurses. Mantzoukas and Jasper 21 believe that there still exists<br />
an unequal relationship between RNs and doctors. However,<br />
every day I witness the respect in which the STN is held<br />
by the consultants with whom we work. I feel proud to be<br />
accepted into this group and am committed to upholding this<br />
image. Hornby and Atkins 20 state that just as an individual<br />
needs to have a satisfying self-image, a pr<strong>of</strong>ession needs to<br />
establish, promote and protect a strong, cohesive and satisfying<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional image with which its practitioners can identify. The<br />
Standards <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nursing 1 include in the philosophy<br />
“a responsibility to share their knowledge and skills with others,<br />
including those in the health pr<strong>of</strong>ession”. I have experienced this<br />
firsthand. Ideas are regularly shared and support <strong>of</strong>fered.<br />
The area <strong>of</strong> research is a weakness in my practice which I intend<br />
to change. I have been involved in only minor areas <strong>of</strong> research,<br />
such as evaluation <strong>of</strong> products. I have helped collect data<br />
for evaluation <strong>of</strong> intravenous site dressings and new ostomy<br />
products (9.2). I have participated in the use and evaluation <strong>of</strong><br />
alternative negative pressure wound devices. I realise that when<br />
qualified, as a member <strong>of</strong> the AASTN it is imperative that I<br />
become active in the association and participate in maintaining<br />
the high standards already set. This will necessitate an ongoing<br />
commitment to education. Newhouse, Dearbolt, Poe, Pugh<br />
and White 22 state that the move towards informed pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />
practice requires evaluation <strong>of</strong> existing practice, synthesis <strong>of</strong><br />
current available evidence, and incorporating the best new<br />
evidence into practice.<br />
As a clinical nurse working in the colorectal ward at my<br />
organisation, I was responsible for producing the clinical<br />
pathways for general and colorectal surgery (12.2). It was also<br />
my responsibility to teach staff how to record variances and to<br />
audit these variances (9.2) for quality improvement 23 . Currently<br />
at my workplace the STN is involved in product evaluation,<br />
pressure area prevention and monitoring <strong>of</strong> all reports <strong>of</strong><br />
skin tears to ensure protocols are followed and patient safety<br />
is maintained (9.6). At this stage <strong>of</strong> my development I am<br />
participating in some <strong>of</strong> these areas but have not taken part in<br />
the product evaluation group.<br />
Assessing my development during this course, I believe I<br />
now have a better grasp <strong>of</strong> the theory behind the day-to-day<br />
practice. Although I have taken advantage <strong>of</strong> the available<br />
journals and texts, particularly those <strong>of</strong> Blackley and Carville,<br />
literature search for assignments has taught me to look further<br />
afield also. Bawden and McKinnon 24 imply that the dynamic<br />
nature <strong>of</strong> learning means that it is never really completed. I<br />
do not consider myself an expert STN. I believe that I am at<br />
the pr<strong>of</strong>icient stage as described by Benner 25 . I have had the<br />
experience over time but must still at times resort to analysing a<br />
situation before deciding on a correct course <strong>of</strong> action.<br />
refereNceS<br />
1. <strong>Australian</strong> Nursing Federation. Competency standards for nurses in<br />
general practice. Advanced registered nurses. Melbourne, Vic: ANF,<br />
2005, pp. 2–7.<br />
2. Oxford Dictionary. Accessed 4 April 2008, askoxford.com/results/<br />
?view=searchresults&freesearch=reflection&branch=&textsearchtyp<br />
e=exactuseaskoxford.com<br />
3. Ghebrehiwet T. Doing what’s right: The ethics <strong>of</strong> nursing. Helping<br />
nurses make ethical decisions. Reflection on nursing leadership.<br />
Third quarter (Feature six), 2005. Accessed 28 February 2006, www.<br />
nursingsociety.org/RNL/RNL3rdQtr.pdf<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 25
4. Leach MJ. Revisiting the evaluation <strong>of</strong> clinical practice. International<br />
J Nurs Pract 2007; 13(2)70–74.<br />
5. Ghaye T. The role <strong>of</strong> reflection in nurturing creative clinical<br />
conversations. In: Ghaye T & Lillyman S (eds). Effective Clinical<br />
Supervision: The role <strong>of</strong> reflection. Trowbridge, Wiltshire: The<br />
Cromwell Press, 2000.<br />
6. AASTN Inc. Standards <strong>of</strong> stomal therapy nursing practice. Journal <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia 2001; 21(2)14–15,18–19.<br />
7. Pellatt GC. The role <strong>of</strong> mentors in supporting preregistration nursing<br />
students. Br J Nurs 2006; 15(6)336–340.<br />
8. Busen NH & Engebretson J. Mentoring in advanced practice<br />
nursing: The use <strong>of</strong> metaphor in concept exploration. The Internet<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> Advanced Practice 1999; 2(2)n.p.<br />
9. Johnson A & Porrett T. Discharge Planning and Supporting Patient<br />
Self-Care. In: Porrett T & McGrath A. Stoma Care. Oxford, UK:<br />
Blackwell Publishing Ltd, 2005.<br />
10. Norma T & McCaughan J. Addressing the shortfalls <strong>of</strong> a part-time<br />
stomal therapy nurse role in relation to preoperative education and<br />
siting. The Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia 2006; 26(1)5–8.<br />
11. Beyea S. Are You “ Just a Nurse”? AORN J 2008; 87(2) 441–444.<br />
12. Vaartio H, Leino-Kilpi H, Salantera S & Suominen T. 2006 Nursing<br />
advocacy: how is it defined by patients and nurses, what does it<br />
involve and how is it experienced? Scand J Caring Sci 2006; 20(282–<br />
292).<br />
13. Carville K. Wound Care Manual, 5th edn. Osborne Park, WA: Silver<br />
Chain Nursing <strong>Association</strong>, 2005.<br />
14. Dyson M. Adjuvant therapies: Ultrasound, laser therapy, electrical<br />
stimulation, hyperbaric oxygen and negative pressure therapy. In:<br />
Morrison MJ, Ovington LG & Wilkie K (eds). Chronic wound care:<br />
A problem-based learning approach. Edinburgh: Mosby, 2004, pp.<br />
129–157.<br />
15. Bliss D, Doughty D & Heitkemper M. Pathology and Management<br />
<strong>of</strong> Bowel Dysfunction. In: Doughty D (ed). Urinary & Fecal<br />
Incontinence. Current management concepts, 3rd edn. St Louis,<br />
Missouri: Mosby Elsevier, 2006.<br />
16. Freshwater D & Stickley TJ. The heart <strong>of</strong> the art: emotional<br />
intelligence in nurse education. Nurs Inq 2004; 11(2)91–98.<br />
17. Blackley P. Practical Stoma Wound and Continence Management,<br />
2nd edn. Vermont, VIC: Australia Research Publications Pty Ltd,<br />
2004.<br />
18. Whitely I. Clinical case study: conservative management <strong>of</strong> a<br />
necrotic colostomy. Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia 2008;<br />
29(1)12–15.<br />
19. MIMS ONLINE. Accessed 9 May 2008, www.mims.hcn.net.au/<br />
fmx-nsapi/mimsdata/?MIval=2MIMS_abbr_pi&product_<br />
code=7927&product_name+Codeine+P<br />
20. Hornby S & Atkins J. Working identity and collaboration. In: Hornby<br />
S & Atkins J. Collaborative Care. Interpr<strong>of</strong>essional, Interagency and<br />
Interpersonal, 2nd edn. Oxford, UK: Blackwell Publishing, 2000.<br />
21. Mantzoukas S & Jasper A. Reflective practice and daily ward reality:<br />
a covert power game. J Clin Nurs 2004; 13(8)925–933.<br />
22. Newhouse R, Dearbolt S, Poe S, Pugh LC & White KM. Evidencebased<br />
practice: A practical guide to implementation. JONA 2005;<br />
35(1)35–40.<br />
23. <strong>Australian</strong> Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS). Standards 1.1<br />
to 1.4 in The <strong>Australian</strong> Council on Healthcare Standards EQuIP<br />
standards, 3rd edn. Ultimo: ACHS, 2002, pp. 3–9.<br />
24. Bawden R & McKinnon C. The portfolio. HERDSA News 1980;<br />
1(1)4–5.<br />
25. Benner P. Interpretation <strong>of</strong> data. In: From novice to expert: Excellence<br />
and power in nursing practice. Menlo Park, California: Addison-<br />
Wesley, 1984, pp. 17–34.<br />
26 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
colorectal Surgical Society <strong>of</strong> Australia<br />
and New Zealand (cSSANZ)<br />
Scholarship for <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses<br />
PurPoSE<br />
To foster and further develop the relationship<br />
between the <strong>Australian</strong> <strong>Association</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong><br />
<strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses Inc. (AASTN Inc.) and CSSANZ,<br />
the CSSANZ will present a scholarship for a novice<br />
stomal therapy nurse (stomal therapy nursing<br />
education programme completed within the<br />
previous three years) to attend their annual Spring<br />
Meeting. This is an annual award and will be presented at the<br />
AASTN Inc. Annual General Meeting.<br />
aWard ValuE<br />
This scholarship will cover registration to the annual CSSANZ Spring<br />
Meeting, economy class airfare and $500 towards accommodation.<br />
EliGiBility CritEria<br />
Applicants must:<br />
• Be a full member <strong>of</strong> the AASTN Inc.<br />
• Be currently registered in the state where they are working and<br />
utilising their stomal therapy nursing skills.<br />
• Have completed an AASTN Inc. recognised stomal therapy<br />
nursing education programme within the previous three years.<br />
• Be able to attend the Spring Meeting in or outside Australia.<br />
ProCESS<br />
Submit an article suitable for publication in The Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong><br />
<strong>Therapy</strong> Australia (<strong>JSTA</strong>). The article may be in the form <strong>of</strong>, but not<br />
limited to:<br />
• A clinical case study.<br />
• Research project.<br />
• Book review not previously published in <strong>JSTA</strong>.<br />
• Educational poster or teaching tool.<br />
• Pr<strong>of</strong>essional issue pertinent to either speciality.<br />
The article, plus a completed <strong>of</strong>ficial application form with a copy<br />
<strong>of</strong> current nursing registration, must reach the national executive<br />
secretary by 15 May in the relevant year. Contact details for the<br />
secretary can be found in the current <strong>JSTA</strong>. Application forms are<br />
available from the AASTN Inc. Executive Secretary and AASTN Inc.<br />
website www.stomaltherapy.com<br />
All applications will be reviewed by the judging panel. A decision<br />
will be available and all applicants notified within six weeks. The<br />
judging panel will consist <strong>of</strong>:<br />
• The Editor, <strong>JSTA</strong> (or delegate).<br />
• Committee member <strong>of</strong> the AASTN Inc Education and<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Development Subcommittee.<br />
• Nominated member <strong>of</strong> the CSSANZ.<br />
Late applications will not be considered. The scholarship award is<br />
not transferable.<br />
SElECtioN CritEria<br />
The decision <strong>of</strong> the judges is final and based on the following criteria:<br />
• Presentation.<br />
• Originality.<br />
• Appropriateness to stomal therapy nursing and colorectal<br />
surgery.<br />
• Demonstrated integration <strong>of</strong> theory and practice.<br />
• Suitability for publication following the <strong>JSTA</strong> Guidelines for<br />
Authors found in the current <strong>JSTA</strong>.
Iran, an experience<br />
Carmen George<br />
In November 2009 I had the privilege <strong>of</strong> travelling to Tehran,<br />
the capital <strong>of</strong> Iran, to assist in the clinical component <strong>of</strong> the<br />
first Iranian Enterostomal <strong>Therapy</strong> Nursing Education Program<br />
(ETNEP). The trip had initially been planned for much earlier<br />
in the year; however, there had been political unrest in Tehran<br />
following the elections so the programme had been altered. This<br />
meant that the ETNEP had been split, with the students doing<br />
the theory component in March and now in November they<br />
were doing the four-week clinical component. I was there for<br />
five weeks with Elizabeth English and Keryln Carville joining<br />
me for a couple <strong>of</strong> weeks each.<br />
The clinical component was held mostly at the Hazrot Rasool<br />
Hospital in Tehran. This is a large government hospital, where<br />
Dr Marjoobi, the colorectal surgeon and joint programme<br />
coordinator, worked. There were also opportunities for the<br />
students to go to the Arjiminajad Kidney Hospital and the burns<br />
hospital; both <strong>of</strong> these hospitals had qualified enterostomal<br />
therapy nurses (ETNs) working there. There was also the<br />
opportunity for the students to go to the Iranian Ostomy Society<br />
where clinics were held. There were 13 students doing the<br />
programme from around Iran.<br />
As a foreign nurse, there were many challenges working in Iran.<br />
These ranged from wearing a scarf at work to understanding<br />
and working within a user-pays health system.<br />
The students were exposed to many different types <strong>of</strong> wounds<br />
as well as patients with stomas. The cost <strong>of</strong> wound dressings and<br />
Figure 1. Working with a headscarf.<br />
stoma supplies is borne directly by the patient or their family. The<br />
hospital pharmacy carried a small but useful variety <strong>of</strong> products;<br />
however, the affordability <strong>of</strong> these products was <strong>of</strong>ten outside<br />
the budget <strong>of</strong> the patients. Teaching and practising the principles<br />
<strong>of</strong> wound management within the financial constraints <strong>of</strong> the<br />
patient was <strong>of</strong>ten challenging. Fortunately, when Elizabeth<br />
English and Keryln Carville came they were able to bring many<br />
wound and stoma products with them. This resulted in the<br />
students being able to experience using a variety <strong>of</strong> products to<br />
Figure 2. Using incontinence pads as secondary dressings in large wounds.<br />
Figure 3. A highly exuding groin wound following surgical debridement.<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 27
achieve the desired patient outcomes without costing the patient<br />
any money. Of course, in many cases compromises had to be<br />
made so teaching principles became important.<br />
Figure 4. Modified parcel dressing.<br />
This young man had been an IV injecting drug user. The wound<br />
was a result <strong>of</strong> debridement <strong>of</strong> a necrotic and infected groin, his<br />
Stage 4 wound is in a difficult position adjacent to his scrotum.<br />
Within the wound bed are two ligated blood vessels which<br />
need protection. Students doing the programme were unused<br />
to having to touch male genitals to provide effective wound<br />
management.<br />
Other types <strong>of</strong> wounds encountered during the clinical<br />
practice included large pressure ulcers, fungating tumours,<br />
acute traumatic wounds, Fournier’s gangrene, compartment<br />
syndrome, numerous diabetic foot wounds, fistulas and draining<br />
wounds.<br />
Figure 5. Stage 5 pressure ulcer.<br />
28 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
This poor, quadriplegic lady had pressure ulcers all over her<br />
body in addition to ischaemic lesions on her lower limbs. Her<br />
husband was her primary carer in the hospital and used to<br />
get up on to the bed and turn her by himself. The bed had no<br />
mechanism to raise or lower it and a pressure-relieving mattress<br />
was unheard <strong>of</strong>. Patients all require a ‘sitter’ to care for them.<br />
These sitters do most <strong>of</strong> the tasks we would consider to be<br />
nursing, including performing basic hygiene, feeding, changing<br />
bed linen and obtaining medications from the pharmacy. They<br />
may also be required to do wound dressings and carry out<br />
stoma care.<br />
Figure 6. Diabetic foot ulcer following surgical debridement.<br />
Students had plenty <strong>of</strong> exposure to lower limb ulcers. There<br />
were numerous patients with diabetes and vascular lesions. The<br />
students were fortunate to have Keryln Carville running the<br />
debriding, lower limb assessment and compression bandaging<br />
workshops which they all participated in. There was plenty <strong>of</strong><br />
opportunity for the students to develop and hone their skills.<br />
Figure 7. Debriding workshop using lambs’ feet instead <strong>of</strong> pigs’ trotters.
What was <strong>of</strong>ten challenging for me was the appearance <strong>of</strong><br />
indifference to the plight <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> the patients. We are used to<br />
working in a society that takes care <strong>of</strong> sick people and ensures<br />
that not only they receive appropriate medical and nursing care<br />
whilst in hospital but plan for the patients’ discharge, ensuring<br />
systems are in place to continue appropriate care. One <strong>of</strong> our<br />
patients was a man who had been assaulted whilst in jail,<br />
resulting in a traumatic injury to his rectum, peritonitis, wound<br />
breakdown and a stoma. He would soon be returning to the jail.<br />
Whilst in hospital, all four limbs were shackled to the bed, two<br />
guards stood by him and he had no sitter, so no one to assist him<br />
with basic hygiene, never mind emptying his stoma bag for him<br />
whilst his hands were immobilised.<br />
Figure 8. Difficult to empty one’s ileostomy bag when one’s arms are shackled.<br />
One woman we came across who was having reversal <strong>of</strong> her<br />
stoma the following day had been sent home with her new<br />
stoma and the phone number <strong>of</strong> the company representative<br />
who sold ostomy bags. When we met her she still had the deep<br />
tension sutures in from the surgery eight weeks prior and she<br />
had not had a single night without leakage from her stoma.<br />
Figure 9. Eight weeks post-surgery, tension sutures still in situ.<br />
She was wearing an inappropriate stoma appliance; needless to<br />
say she had never seen a stomal therapy nurse. The company<br />
representative’s job was to sell product, so there was no incentive<br />
to find a leakpro<strong>of</strong> bag for the lady. We were able to assess the<br />
lady’s stoma and apply a suitable appliance. Fortunately her<br />
skin was not badly eroded as during the day the bag did not<br />
leak. The lady had her first leak-free night immediately prior to<br />
stoma.<br />
The Iran Ostomy Society provided us and the students with<br />
opportunities to meet the people who run the association, the<br />
volunteers and, <strong>of</strong> course, the ostomates. Ostomy supplies at<br />
the society are mostly donated to them for distribution by the<br />
Friends <strong>of</strong> the World. The society also sells products.<br />
Figures 10 and 11. Dr Vafai, the founder <strong>of</strong> the Iranian Ostomy Society, with<br />
students, members <strong>of</strong> the IOS, volunteer workers and Liz and myself.<br />
At the beginning <strong>of</strong> 2009, Iran had six ETNs. Two <strong>of</strong> these work<br />
as lecturers in university and aren’t involved in clinical care.<br />
Two work in private hospitals where they practise in stoma and<br />
wound care, one works for industry and one is the director <strong>of</strong><br />
nursing at a major hospital. Now with 13 graduates from the<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 29
first programme there are four ETNs in Shiraz, one in Esfahan,<br />
one in Yars and seven more ETNs in Tehran. These nurses will<br />
never be short <strong>of</strong> work, their skills and knowledge are needed<br />
and appreciated by the many people with stomas that have<br />
never had a stoma nurse assist them with their life-altering<br />
surgery.<br />
The work <strong>of</strong> Marshid Suriady in organising this programme<br />
and the dedication <strong>of</strong> the students who enthusiastically took<br />
every opportunity to learn made this ETNEP possible. The<br />
opportunity for Keryln, Elizabeth and myself to be involved<br />
resulted in a truly memorable experience for all <strong>of</strong> us.<br />
Figure 12. Ileostomate wearing a urostomy bag.<br />
Figure 13. Postoperative urostomy, Iranian style.<br />
30 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
Figure 14. Marshid Suriady and Keryln Carville.<br />
Figure 15. The graduation.<br />
aaStN: values, purpose and vision<br />
our values<br />
Quality, respect, accountability, commitment and innovation.<br />
our purpose<br />
To provide support and leadership to stomal therapy nurses<br />
in their endeavour to provide quality nursing practice.<br />
our vision<br />
Enduring recognition for excellence and innovation in<br />
stomal therapy practice at a national and international level.
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses <strong>of</strong> Newcastle give Birth OR<br />
Newcastle <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Study Day 28/8/10 Report<br />
Sharon Gibbins<br />
In February Jill Fairhall, Jenny O’Donnell STN’s at John Hunter<br />
Hospital and Tess Richards STN from the Mater decided it<br />
would be great to hold a study day for local nurses, geared<br />
towards those in aged care facilities and the community. Back<br />
in 2005 Jill, Jenny & Tess were involved in the organisation <strong>of</strong> a<br />
successful study day.<br />
Running a study day could be compared with having a baby. It<br />
comes from a small seed, there is preparation <strong>of</strong> the nest, lots <strong>of</strong><br />
fluffing about wanting to make it perfect, a few hiccups, some<br />
indigestion, then there’s the delivery. Jenny, Jill, and Tess, like<br />
many mothers, had forgotten the pain and intestinal fortitude<br />
needed, only remembering the successful birth.<br />
The name choosing came fairly early, after the pregnancy<br />
was confirmed, as we knew it was going to be a study day.<br />
Named using the KISS method, Keep It Simple and deScriptive,<br />
we chose: “Newcastle <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Study Day”. Monthly<br />
meetings were held at the local c<strong>of</strong>fee shop (no alcohol before<br />
the birth, and we tried to avoid inhaling the cigarette smoke).<br />
The choice <strong>of</strong> hospital was a problem. One hospital we chose<br />
was found to be overbooked - no room at the inn! The next<br />
wouldn’t allow us to bring our own food - akin to not letting<br />
your partner in (one <strong>of</strong> the most vital parts <strong>of</strong> a successful study<br />
day). So we chose a more homely setting for the delivery - the<br />
local community hall, a lovely converted theatre, complete with<br />
plenty <strong>of</strong> seating, tables, a kitchen, and yes, a stage.<br />
We gained approval and support from our parent body, the<br />
AASTN. Banking and money collection - tick. Invitations<br />
announcing the due date - tick. Pr<strong>of</strong>essionals enlisted to present<br />
- tick. Catering (high on the list) - tick. Invite company reps - tick.<br />
Produce a handbook - tick. A “things to-do” list for the day - tick.<br />
Bags packed? Sounds so easy, doesn’t it?<br />
So, after 6 c<strong>of</strong>fee meetings, innumerable phone calls and over 200<br />
emails, August 28 th , the due date arrived. Our baby “Newcastle<br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Study Day” was about to be induced. The<br />
delivery went smoothly. Husbands, sons and friends assisted in<br />
the birth.<br />
Jill as MC kept the ball rolling by adding a few snippets <strong>of</strong> her<br />
experiences, between contractions. We all cracked up when she<br />
talked about her husband’s flatus issues! (hope he isn’t reading<br />
this).<br />
“Loved Jenny’s graphic intestinal display”. No, Jenny O’Donnell<br />
didn’t expose her bowels, but did manage to produce a 10 metre<br />
calico intestinal tract and stretch it across the stage.<br />
Few had heard <strong>of</strong> the topic for Deb Day’s case study - “Devine”<br />
was the colostomy. Sharon Gibbins gave all the tips for basic<br />
care. Tess Richards had the pick <strong>of</strong> the pics showing us all the<br />
abnormalities, and then some. Put them on your screen saver?<br />
Julianne Feather kept us well hydrated and BGL’s elevated<br />
with all levels GI foods. Were they all on Julie Farrow, the<br />
dietitian’s recommended list? Were all our medications being<br />
absorbed according to Jenny Payne, the Pharmacist? We weren’t<br />
concerned on the big day. Give us all the drugs! Our baby was<br />
almost there.<br />
The final push came from Cath Adams, the psychologist. She was<br />
the climax. Cath had the audience in tears, relating poignant and<br />
thought- provoking sexual scenarios encountered by ostomates.<br />
Bursting at the seams, stitches were the order <strong>of</strong> the day.<br />
It was so sweet, with comments such as: “one <strong>of</strong> the best<br />
presented”, “food was fantastic”, “very well organised”, “most<br />
impressed”, “awesome day”, “can’t improve on excellence”,<br />
“sign me up for the next one”. The oohs and ahs <strong>of</strong> the visitors,<br />
everyone joined in to appreciate our baby. “Newcastle <strong>Stomal</strong><br />
<strong>Therapy</strong> Study Day” was a hit.<br />
Thanks go to all our helpers, presenters, the 83 attendants, and<br />
ourselves.<br />
Guest speakers: Julie Farrow, Jenny Payne, Cath Adams.<br />
From the team: Jill Fairhall, Jenny O’Donnell, Tess Richards, Deb<br />
Day, Sharon Gibbins, Lara Riley , Julianne Feather, and Kellie<br />
Russell and Rhonda Farthing.<br />
Will we do it again next year? Perhaps later…… when we forget<br />
the pain or when our baby is out <strong>of</strong> nappies……..<br />
But don’t forget the chocolates.<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 31
conference report<br />
Carol Stott<br />
I was fortunate enough to attend the BEECHAC Conference on<br />
13 June, where I took part in two panel discussions and gave a<br />
talk on Healthy Body Image. During my time at the conference, I<br />
met many <strong>of</strong> the children, their families, organisers and speakers.<br />
This is when I realised what a huge commitment it had been to<br />
organise such an event and how committed the organisers were.<br />
The term ‘BEECH’ is used collectively to describe the congenital<br />
conditions <strong>of</strong> bladder exstrophy, epispadias, cloacal exstrophy<br />
and hypospadius which are rare conditions <strong>of</strong> the genito-urinary<br />
(GU) system. The defects range from bladder exstrophy, which<br />
is a severe defect characterised by externalisation <strong>of</strong> the bladder,<br />
splaying <strong>of</strong> the urethra and separation <strong>of</strong> the pelvic bone to<br />
relatively mild defects such as glandular epispadias, which is<br />
a minor defect on the top <strong>of</strong> the penile shaft 1 . The incidence <strong>of</strong><br />
such defects is rare, occurring in about 1 in 10,000 to 50,000 live<br />
births, and is twice as common in males, than it is in females 1 .<br />
Because the conditions are rare, it is <strong>of</strong>ten difficult for people<br />
with BEECH conditions to access the care that they need,<br />
especially holistic care – or to even understand exactly what care<br />
is needed for themselves or their children.<br />
WCEt report<br />
32 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
Preparing for cairns 2011<br />
Brenda Sando CNC STN • The Wesley Hospital, Brisbane, QLD<br />
The Adelaide WCET congress committee is still hard at work<br />
to ensure the congress which is being held in Adelaide 20–24<br />
April 2012 will be a congress which will attract people from<br />
many different nations. They meet monthly and sometimes<br />
more frequently as well as communicating via email. There is<br />
still a lot <strong>of</strong> work to be done but they are meeting their timeline<br />
requirements. The website is now up and running and you can<br />
access it at www.wcetn.org as well as the AASTN website to<br />
submit your expression <strong>of</strong> interest. You will then receive updates<br />
on information about the congress.<br />
There will also be a lot <strong>of</strong> information at the AASTN conference<br />
from 3 to 7 July 2011, which is being held in Cairns, so register<br />
online for this inaugural event Joint Conference with Tripartite<br />
Colorectal Surgical Society. Log onto the <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> website<br />
at www.stomaltherapy.com and click on new and events to find<br />
out more and register. If you register before 18 March, the cost<br />
is only $525 for members, which is a great price considering<br />
it is two conferences for the price <strong>of</strong> one. The theme <strong>of</strong> our<br />
conference is: Leaders in Practice – Captured in Paradise.<br />
Fees are now due for the WCET, so if your membership is due<br />
by 31 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2010</strong> please go online and pay them now. You<br />
The aims <strong>of</strong> the conference were to give <strong>Australian</strong> BEECHAC<br />
members the opportunity to meet and network with each<br />
other and strengthen support with health pr<strong>of</strong>essionals and<br />
agencies. There were guest speakers from similar associations<br />
around the world including the UK and USA. There were<br />
health pr<strong>of</strong>essionals from all over Australia and other parts <strong>of</strong><br />
the world with an interest in BEECH conditions. The children’s<br />
activities organised were for children with BEECH conditions<br />
and their siblings and included a trip to Taronga zoo.<br />
The conference was a huge success thanks to Alana Sullivan and<br />
her team, which included Katy Hargreaves, Chris Sylva, Julie<br />
Fitzhardinge and Imogen Yang. The feedback received from<br />
attendees has been tremendous.<br />
refereNceS<br />
1. Wong’s nursing care <strong>of</strong> infants and children. Chapter 11, Conditions<br />
Caused by Defects in Physical Development. St Louis: Mosby, 2003,<br />
p. 482.<br />
may like to pay for two years while the exchange rate is very<br />
favourable and then you won’t have to remember next year. I<br />
have sent a reminder to those whose membership is now due,<br />
so if you did not receive that reminder it means you are paid up<br />
until end <strong>of</strong> 2012 or, in a few cases, 2013.<br />
By the time you read this report in the journal I will be retired. I<br />
retired in my position as CNC STN on 28 October this year after<br />
having been at The Wesley Hospital for 25 years, 19 <strong>of</strong> those<br />
as an STN. I have had a wonderful career, especially in stomal<br />
therapy nursing and have met many wonderful people along<br />
the way as well as worked with a great team at Wesley. I would<br />
like to thank my many STN colleagues that I have shared with<br />
over the years for the friendship, care and sharing <strong>of</strong> knowledge<br />
and assisting me to solve difficult problems. You are a wonderful<br />
group <strong>of</strong> people who show so much compassion and care as<br />
well as being innovative in ways that amaze patients and other<br />
nurses.<br />
I will be going to the AASTN conference in July next year as<br />
I will fulfill my commitment as WCET <strong>Australian</strong> ID until the<br />
2012 congress, so see you in Cairns.
aCSa report<br />
<strong>Australian</strong> council <strong>of</strong> Stoma <strong>Association</strong>s Inc (AcSA)<br />
<strong>2010</strong> review<br />
Peter Lopez • Member <strong>of</strong> the ACSA Executive Committee<br />
The year <strong>2010</strong> has been eventful for ACSA. There has been a<br />
significant change in the make-up <strong>of</strong> our Executive Committee;<br />
there has been a review <strong>of</strong> the Stoma Appliance Scheme (another<br />
one!); then there was our usual annual conference; and in<br />
November we will be attending what is likely to be the last IOA<br />
Congress as we have come to know it. Also there has been a<br />
notable increased activity from the Australia Fund.<br />
Our long-serving President, Gerry Barry, retired this year after<br />
13 years as President and five years as Vice-President. His<br />
contribution to the ostomy community, both in Australia and<br />
internationally, has been extensive and will be long remembered.<br />
Our new President is Peter McQueen, who served as Vice-<br />
President for some years and whose contribution is also <strong>of</strong><br />
considerable import. Peter resides in Melbourne and is well<br />
known to most ostomates and STNs.<br />
The new Vice-President is Ge<strong>of</strong>f Rhodes from Canberra. Ge<strong>of</strong>f<br />
is new to the national scene but has been active in the ACT<br />
association for many years. He has been an ostomate since<br />
childhood.<br />
The remaining members <strong>of</strong> the Executive are the Secretary,<br />
Norm Kelly, and myself as Treasurer.<br />
We are both from Queensland and are active in the Gold Coast<br />
association.<br />
The Stoma Appliance Scheme (SAS) has once again come under<br />
review by the government. This is the third or fourth such<br />
review since the scheme’s inception. The results <strong>of</strong> the current<br />
review are in the hands <strong>of</strong> the Department <strong>of</strong> Health and Ageing<br />
and the Minister for Health. Because <strong>of</strong> this year’s federal<br />
election and its protracted result, the results <strong>of</strong> the SAS Review<br />
have been delayed. We are hopeful that its conclusions will be<br />
made known to ACSA in the near future.<br />
Our annual conference was held in Melbourne this year and<br />
it was well attended as usual, with delegates from all over<br />
Australia. One <strong>of</strong> the outstanding features this year was a<br />
presentation by Bruce Treagus, perfusionist, St Vincents Hospital,<br />
Melbourne. Bruce introduced himself as a qualified perfusionist<br />
and toolmaker and explained how he was using his skills<br />
to assist people with problem stomas and difficult wounds.<br />
Bruce explained his method <strong>of</strong> identifying ways <strong>of</strong> overcoming<br />
problems such as huge fistulas, crevices and retracted stomas.<br />
Bruce also advised that he is the only person in the world who<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers this type <strong>of</strong> service.<br />
There was a consensus <strong>of</strong> opinion by all delegates and the<br />
Executive that this man’s work must be nurtured and supported<br />
by all concerned. It was agreed that Bruce’s work needs to be<br />
encouraged and developed because it is the only work <strong>of</strong> its type<br />
being carried out, certainly in Australia, probably throughout<br />
the world. In order to progress this matter, the Executive<br />
resolved that discussions would be held with Bruce as to what<br />
sort <strong>of</strong> organisational structure would be appropriate and<br />
suitable for him to develop the proposal.<br />
This would probably involve the provision <strong>of</strong> secretarial or<br />
administrative assistance together with future development <strong>of</strong><br />
other persons to acquire his expertise. This may well be a project<br />
where the AASTN and ACSA could work together to ensure that<br />
this valuable contribution is not squandered<br />
In November I will be attending, as Australia’s delegate, the<br />
International Ostomy <strong>Association</strong>’s annual meeting in Frankfurt,<br />
Germany. Our President will also be attending as Regional<br />
President. This year’s meeting is significant in that it will be<br />
reviewing its organisational structure. Instead <strong>of</strong> it comprising<br />
five regions, it is proposed that it be made up three regions,<br />
namely, Europe, the Americas, and the Asia-South Pacific area.<br />
The South Pacific Ostomy <strong>Association</strong> (made up <strong>of</strong> Australia and<br />
New Zealand ) is to be disbanded and added to the Asia region<br />
under the name <strong>of</strong> the Asia-South Pacific Ostomy <strong>Association</strong>.<br />
Each region will then be responsible for its own administration<br />
and assistance programmes.<br />
In this respect, the Australia Fund has been very active this year.<br />
For those <strong>of</strong> you who don’t know, this fund was created under<br />
the auspices <strong>of</strong> ACSA for the purpose <strong>of</strong> assisting ostomates<br />
less fortunate than ourselves in other countries. It is wholly<br />
funded by <strong>Australian</strong> ostomates and administered by ACSA.<br />
In recent years, appliances have been donated to Indonesia,<br />
Nepal, Ethiopia, Fiji and New Guinea, with a total value <strong>of</strong> some<br />
$350,000.<br />
It only remains for me to wish all your members a merry<br />
Christmas and a prosperous and happy New Year, with the<br />
hope that our fruitful relationship improves and endures over<br />
the coming year.<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 33
State reports<br />
<strong>Australian</strong> capital Territory<br />
Hi everyone<br />
I hope you all enjoy the upcoming festive season. We have<br />
been unable to hold an AGM this year in Canberra due to other<br />
commitments from the members. Hopefully in the first meeting<br />
next year we will have an AGM and a new committee.<br />
Congratulation to Kirsti, our Education Subcommittee<br />
representative, on the birth <strong>of</strong> her baby daughter in September.<br />
All reports are that mum and bub are doing very well.<br />
Regards<br />
Kellie<br />
New South Wales<br />
Our second monthly meetings continue with a good attendance,<br />
with teleconference a very good option for members who are<br />
unable to physically attend the meetings. Our last meeting for<br />
the year is on Friday 3 <strong>December</strong>, followed by our Christmas<br />
dinner at the nearby Newtown Vegetarian Restaurant. If you<br />
would like to attend the dinner, please call Jenny.<br />
The October meeting was our AGM. The elected <strong>of</strong>fice bearers<br />
are: Chairperson/State Rep Jenny Rex; Secretary – Trish Morgan;<br />
Treasurer – Susan Dunne; Committee members – Mark Murtagh,<br />
Jackie Johnson, Anne Marie Lyons, Sally Auld and Lee Gavegan;<br />
Education and Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Development Subcommittee Reps<br />
– Susan Dunne and Lesley Everingham; Education Session<br />
Organiser – Heather Hill.<br />
Our educational speaker at the August meeting was Lachlan<br />
Davis from Medtronic talking about Sacral Nerve Stimulation<br />
(Interstim <strong>Therapy</strong>). Our speaker for the October meeting was<br />
Carol Stott presenting her <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy education in Indonesia.<br />
The Newcastle study day on 28 August was very successful,<br />
with 83 registrants. The plans for the South Coast study day<br />
are going will, with a very good programme <strong>of</strong>fered. For more<br />
information,please contact Julia Kittscha on 0414 421021 or email<br />
Julia.Kittscha@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au<br />
We welcome new members to the AASTN NSW branch: Lisa<br />
Clare, Kerry Terry and Samantha Butcher. Meetings for 2011<br />
are held on Tuesdays: 1 February, 5 April, 7 June, 2 August, 4<br />
October and Friday 2 <strong>December</strong>.<br />
If you are an AASTN member and do not get our branch<br />
minutes, please contact me on 9515 8990.<br />
Merry Christmas and cheers,<br />
Jenny rex<br />
34 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
Northern Territory<br />
The NT has been busy <strong>of</strong> late, with lots <strong>of</strong> changes at the wound<br />
and stomal therapy front. We would like to welcome a new<br />
stomal therapist to the role at Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH),<br />
Donna Fisher who previously worked at Alice Springs. Donna<br />
is now working part-time at RDH and brings our numbers to<br />
four stomal therapists employed in the NT. I will be taking a step<br />
back from stomal therapy as Donna takes charge <strong>of</strong> the stoma<br />
management in RDH, whilst I take on a more extensive wound<br />
care focus as I expand the role <strong>of</strong> wound management nurse<br />
practitioner at RDH.<br />
Gail McBean and Chris Clarke continue to work in their<br />
respective roles in the Darwin community setting as stomal<br />
therapists and continence and wound advisors. It looks like <strong>2010</strong><br />
will be an exciting year and more changes are afoot.<br />
It was great to see so many STNs at the WCET/WOCN<br />
conference in Phoenix, and exciting to see the interested raised<br />
for the next WCET conference in Adelaide.<br />
Looking forward to seeing everyone in Cairns in July next year.<br />
That’s all from the NT for now.<br />
Cheers,<br />
Jenni<br />
Queensland<br />
This year has certainly flown and we are organising our<br />
Christmas lunch breakup. Brenda, Colleen, Jan D and myself<br />
have all just returned recently from trips on the Rhine and<br />
Danube rivers in Europe. We all had an amazing time and would<br />
recommend this area/trip to anyone. Petra is in the Netherlands<br />
for a family reunion, so we are waiting to hear all about her<br />
adventures at the November meeting.<br />
Panel <strong>of</strong> STN’s.
Ray Garske presented with certificate <strong>of</strong> by Shirley Jones and Jan Fields.<br />
Congratulations to Sally Langford-Edmonds, Krista Cue, Di<br />
Greathead and Kelly Dunk for completing their Certificate in<br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> and we welcome them to our meetings.<br />
Brenda Sando has decided to retire from her position at the<br />
Wesley Hospital on 28 October <strong>2010</strong>. She has worked there<br />
for 25 years, with 19 years as an STN. Brenda has been well<br />
respected by surgeons, STNs and colleagues over these years.<br />
She has mentored many STNs in Queensland as well as doctors<br />
and nurses. Her involvement at AASTNQ, national STN body,<br />
conferences and WCET are a credit to her and I know she has<br />
enjoyed working in all these roles. Queensland STNs have<br />
all gained from her incredible knowledge and she will be<br />
sadly missed at the Wesley Hospital. There have been many<br />
celebrations organised for her farewell. Brenda will continue<br />
to attend meetings and be involved on the WCET committee,<br />
fully supporting the conference in 2012. Brenda will continue<br />
on special projects as well as being a new grandmother for her<br />
second grandchild. She is also building a new house and moving<br />
up to Caloundra, so her time will be busy. We all wish her well<br />
in her retirement.<br />
Gerry Barry presenting flowers to Brenda Sando<br />
Brenda Sando thank you with K. McGory<br />
We held a very successful ostomate education day on Saturday 16<br />
October. Approximately 90 ostomates attended and many STNs<br />
from the Brisbane region. Thanks go to the Queensland Stoma<br />
<strong>Association</strong> (QSA) and Queensland Colostomy <strong>Association</strong> for<br />
organising and encouraging a great response. It was a day <strong>of</strong><br />
celebrations as QSA celebrated their 50 years <strong>of</strong> service. Topics<br />
discussed were: Hernia management and support garments,<br />
update on the ostomy scheme, discharge and community<br />
planning, Brisbane ostomate support group update (BOSVS)<br />
and panel questions. BOSVS celebrated their 10 year-service last<br />
November. Jan Fields (on behalf <strong>of</strong> the AASTNQ) presented Ray<br />
Garske (President) with a certificate in recognition <strong>of</strong> the 10 yearmilestone<br />
and all their excellent and rewarding work. We are<br />
very thankful for the contributions from both Shirley Jones and<br />
Sheryl Waye as representatives from AASTNQ. Shirley Jones has<br />
been part <strong>of</strong> the BOSVS team since its inception and is passionate<br />
about the ongoing support <strong>of</strong> this wonderful team <strong>of</strong> volunteers.<br />
Gerry Barry (President <strong>of</strong> ACSA) presented Brenda Sando with a<br />
beautiful bunch <strong>of</strong> lilies for all her support and pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism<br />
throughout her career. Thanks also to the wonderful company<br />
representatives that provided a scrumptious afternoon tea as<br />
well as trade tables.<br />
Our meeting dates for 2011 will continue to be held on Tuesday<br />
at the Mater Hospital at 1700. We encourage new members to<br />
attend:<br />
18 January<br />
1 March<br />
3 May<br />
28 June<br />
6 September<br />
8 November<br />
We hope the festive season finds you all well, bringing you<br />
Greetings and Christmas cheer, and hope for a very happy New<br />
Year and successful 2011.<br />
Helleen Purdy<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 35
South Australia<br />
Although there have been no meetings for the wider South<br />
<strong>Australian</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses group since June, regular<br />
monthly meetings continue for the organising group <strong>of</strong> the<br />
WCET congress meeting in 2012. I gather the arrangements are<br />
progressing slowly but well, with new ideas gradually coming<br />
to fruition.<br />
At the Royal Adelaide Hospital, a group <strong>of</strong> 22 nurses are<br />
undertaking the first module <strong>of</strong> the South <strong>Australian</strong> stomal<br />
therapy course. Some <strong>of</strong> the nurses will go on to complete the<br />
rest <strong>of</strong> their <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Certificate, while the others will<br />
have completed the Ostomy Resource Person Certificate and<br />
finish at the end <strong>of</strong> the week. The participants come from a range<br />
<strong>of</strong> settings and quite a number are from country health centres,<br />
which is very pleasing to see as continuity <strong>of</strong> care is always<br />
important.<br />
Another activity involving stomal therapy nurses was the<br />
Riverland Study Day held at Berri on Friday 24 September.<br />
This event was sponsored and organised by Hartmanns and<br />
Independence Australia and 32 people attended the day. Topics<br />
presented covered wound, ostomy and continence issues and<br />
Merle Boeree was there to present an overview <strong>of</strong> stomas and<br />
their management.<br />
On Friday 15 October, the annual quiz night will be held at the<br />
Clarence Park Community Hall. Many stomal therapy nurses<br />
have organised tables with families and friends in readiness for<br />
an evening <strong>of</strong> entertainment. The Royal Adelaide Hospital table<br />
has pulled out all stops to recruit talent and are expecting to win<br />
after a very low placing last year!<br />
<strong>December</strong> will be a busy month with the usual stomal therapy<br />
nurse Christmas celebratory dinner along with other seasonal<br />
functions. We are also anticipating an invitation from the South<br />
<strong>Australian</strong> Nurses for Continence Interest group to attend a<br />
dinner with Doctors Mary Palmer and Jan Paterson speaking<br />
on issues relating to continence matters. Dr Palmer is visiting<br />
from America and is well known for her interest in continence<br />
and aged care, while Dr Paterson runs the continence course at<br />
Flinders University <strong>of</strong> South Australia and is a widely respected<br />
member <strong>of</strong> the international continence community. With such<br />
speakers, a good attendance is expected as many <strong>of</strong> us are keen<br />
to enlarge our knowledge in this area.<br />
Tasmania<br />
Christmas greetings from Tassie!<br />
Tasmanian STNs have had a busy year both on the work front<br />
and in education. Carolynne Partridge and I have completed<br />
our Master in Clinical Nursing, with clever Carolynne also<br />
completing a prostate cancer nurse course! We are both very<br />
much looking forward to a study-free 2011!<br />
We would like to say a very happy 50th to Sue Delanty, who<br />
escaped to a northern, more tropical island to celebrate her<br />
36 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
birthday in style. Good work Sue. Sue continues to represent<br />
us in education and pr<strong>of</strong>essional development with the AASTN<br />
and has had a recent trip to SA in that capacity.<br />
Our latest journal club meeting was held in Hobart. Guest<br />
colorectal surgeon, Emilio Mignanelli, discussed the latest<br />
in colorectal cancer statistics and surgery, which was very<br />
interesting. The evening was very enjoyable and well worth the<br />
travel for us northern girls.<br />
Congratulations to Karen Campbell who has become a<br />
grandmother with the birth <strong>of</strong> an adorable little boy, Oliver.<br />
Continuing on with the congratulations, we are looking forward<br />
to high tea at the Grand Chancellor to help celebrate Teena and<br />
Evan’s upcoming nuptials. We wish them every happiness as<br />
they begin the rest <strong>of</strong> their lives together.<br />
All in all, it has been a very busy but successful year in our state.<br />
Wishing one and all a very merry Christmas and a very healthy<br />
and safe 2011.<br />
Tracey beattie<br />
victoria<br />
As we come towards the end <strong>of</strong> another busy year, the Victorian<br />
branch has enjoyed an interesting and hectic time. The focus<br />
<strong>of</strong> this year has been to provide our members with education<br />
sessions that have been current, topical and relevant to our<br />
practice.<br />
The last two education sessions <strong>of</strong> the year have proven to<br />
be relevant to our stomal therapy roles, within the hospital<br />
environment and the community setting. Both sessions were<br />
well supported by our members from the metropolitan and<br />
country areas.<br />
In August, the topic <strong>of</strong> the session was nutrition. Margaret Allen<br />
is a nutritionist, in private practice. Her special interest is in<br />
the nutrition and fluid needs <strong>of</strong> the ostomate. Her presentation<br />
Nutritional troubleshooting for the STN gave a unique insight into<br />
these issues from both a pr<strong>of</strong>essional and personal perspective.<br />
Margaret has personal experiences <strong>of</strong> Crohn’s disease and an<br />
ileostomy. She certainly gave us a lot <strong>of</strong> useful hints and tips,<br />
as well as an in-depth look into the fluid management <strong>of</strong> highoutput<br />
ileostomies.<br />
In September, the topic was Neobladder versus ileal conduit,<br />
presented by Kay Talbot, urology nurse consultant, working in<br />
private practice, in a specialist urology clinic. This presentation<br />
gave an insight into the selection <strong>of</strong> clients who would be<br />
suitable for the ongoing management <strong>of</strong> a neobladder and<br />
those who would be better suited to having an ileal conduit.<br />
The information on client selection for neobladder surgery,<br />
the commitment required to make this surgery work and the<br />
information that clients would need to make these decisions,<br />
was <strong>of</strong> interest to our group. Ileal conduit surgery is much more
familiar to us and it was great to discuss the alternatives. Kay’s<br />
knowledge and commitment to her speciality was obvious from<br />
her lecture and was enjoyed by all in attendance.<br />
We wish to recognise the achievements <strong>of</strong> Diana Hayes,<br />
stomal therapy nurse consultant with Western Health. Diana<br />
was honoured, by the state government, with the Award for<br />
Excellence in Nursing Practice. Her research was focused on<br />
patients having surgery on the small intestine. Some <strong>of</strong> these<br />
patients were not receiving the full benefits from their slowrelease<br />
medications and were suffering the effects <strong>of</strong> fluid loss<br />
and dehydration. Diana has developed a therapy and treatment<br />
programme, specifically targeting these patients, addressing<br />
areas such as, hydration levels, salt intake and modified diet. We<br />
congratulate Diana on her achievements.<br />
The conference committee continues to work very hard, in the<br />
organisation <strong>of</strong> the Tripartite Colorectal Conference, in July<br />
2011. We encourage all our members to support their effort and<br />
inform all your colleagues to participate. Hospital-based nurses,<br />
colorectal nurses, as well as stomal therapy nurses.<br />
The last meeting <strong>of</strong> the year will be Christmas drinks and<br />
nibbles, thanking all our members for their hard work and<br />
commitment to the branch over this year. Keep your eyes peeled<br />
for the events that are being organised for 2011. Check the<br />
website for details.<br />
We wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy New<br />
Year.<br />
See you in Cairns.<br />
Patricia McKenzie<br />
Western Australia<br />
The year <strong>2010</strong> has been yet another wonderful year here in<br />
Western Australia. The AASTN WA branch goes from strength<br />
to strength.<br />
Another successful STEP was completed on 19 September <strong>2010</strong><br />
with 13 new STNs graduating. Welcome to the budding STNs<br />
and good luck on the journey <strong>of</strong> stomal therapy. A big thank you<br />
to Lorrie Gray, course facilitator, who as usual gave 100% and<br />
to the co-coordinators: Liz Howse, Keryln Carville and Carmel<br />
Boyle who all contributed to making this a success.<br />
Following the AGM, the new committee consists <strong>of</strong>:<br />
President: Carmel Boylan<br />
Vice-President: Karen McNamara<br />
Acting Secretary: Shannon Tassell<br />
Treasurer: Rita Mcilduff<br />
State Representative: Leigh Davies<br />
Country Representative: Robyn White<br />
Newsletter Coordinator: Debra D’Silva<br />
Committee Members: Keryln Carville, Leigh Davies,<br />
Brigid Keating, Mileva Basic<br />
Education Representative: Sandy Hyde-Smith, Lorrie Gray<br />
Clinical updates and the pr<strong>of</strong>essional development day (PDD)<br />
were both interesting and informative. Dr Callum Pearce,<br />
gastroenterologist at Fremantle Hospital spoke on Intestinal<br />
Failure, the research project currently being undertaken at<br />
Fremantle hospital with great results.<br />
A survey <strong>of</strong> the ostomates in WA was conducted to capture<br />
any deficits related to support, product supply/ordering or<br />
suggestions to improve either or both areas. There was a great<br />
response with a positive outcome. The STNs were also surveyed<br />
to identify management aspects <strong>of</strong> care for WA people with<br />
stomas that could be developed, altered or improved. The<br />
branch committee wants to ensure the best services possible are<br />
provided for both the STNs and patients.<br />
At the <strong>2010</strong> Nursing and Midwifery<br />
Excellence Awards, hosted by<br />
the <strong>of</strong>fice <strong>of</strong> the Chief Nurse and<br />
Midwifery, we were delighted to<br />
announce that Dr Keryln Carville<br />
was awarded the inaugural Lifetime<br />
Achievement Award. It was wonderful<br />
for Keryln to be recognised by her<br />
peers in the nursing pr<strong>of</strong>ession. As a<br />
nursing expert in wound care, ostomy<br />
and continence management working<br />
in both Australia and overseas, Keryln’s many publications<br />
and presentations support her recognition as a driving force<br />
that has seen wound management and improved patient care<br />
pushed to the forefront <strong>of</strong> nursing practice in WA. Her skills in<br />
this complex field <strong>of</strong> healthcare transcend the usual boundaries<br />
associated with this role. Congratulations Keryln,we are all so<br />
very proud <strong>of</strong> you!<br />
Merry Christmas and happy New Year to all members <strong>of</strong><br />
the AASTN and I am sure 2011 will bring more outstanding<br />
achievements.<br />
leigh davies<br />
Merry Christmas<br />
and Happy New<br />
Year to all<br />
our readers<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 37
Articles printed in the Journal <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong><br />
Australia: index 2008-<strong>2010</strong><br />
Abbreviations:<br />
CS: Case Study HP: Historical perspectives<br />
AuTHor/S voluMe<br />
oSToMy MANAGeMeNT:<br />
convexity<br />
• CS: Using a convex appliance to achieve a variety <strong>of</strong><br />
positive outcomes<br />
Carmen George March 08<br />
diet<br />
• Does a modified diet reduce the incidence <strong>of</strong> fluid output in<br />
people with an ileostomy? A preliminary study<br />
Diana Hayes March 08<br />
flatus<br />
• Flatus: prevention and management<br />
Angela Castle June 08<br />
General<br />
• How my first stoma encounter lead me to a career in stomal<br />
therapy nursing<br />
Nobuki Murphy Dec 08<br />
• Psychological aspects in ostomy care<br />
Julia Thompson Sept 09<br />
• What is the consensus? How do you organise preoperative<br />
assessments?<br />
Julia Thompson Sept 09<br />
• Clinical case study <strong>of</strong> a high output stoma and the AF300<br />
filter<br />
Dec 09<br />
• Should colostomy irrigation be a last resort?<br />
Anne Marie Lyons & Roger Riccardi Dec 09<br />
• Evaluating a postoperative see-through dressing<br />
Diana Hayes Dec 09<br />
• The implementation <strong>of</strong> traffic light guidelines for hospitalbased<br />
stoma management<br />
Sandy Hyde-Smith Dec 09<br />
Hirschsprung’s disease<br />
• Hirschsprung’s disease: my personal experience<br />
Carolynne Partridge June 08<br />
38 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
Patient education<br />
• Preoperative information for colorectal cancer patients: does<br />
it make a difference?<br />
Maria Stirling, Veronica Knowles & P. Livingston June 08<br />
Special Patient Groups<br />
• Stoma, wound and fistula management in gynaecological<br />
oncology patients<br />
Carol Stott & Jennifer Duggan Sept 08<br />
• CS: Partial jejunal resection for mesenteric infarction<br />
Lesley Jack Sept 08<br />
Stoma complications<br />
• CS: conservative management <strong>of</strong> a necrotic colostomy<br />
Ian Whiteley March 08<br />
• Management <strong>of</strong> a retracted stoma<br />
Leonie Cartlidge-Gann June 08<br />
• CS: Stenosing vesicostomy: a novel solution<br />
Judy Wells March 09<br />
• Parastomal hernias revisited, including a cost-effectiveness<br />
analysis: is an ounce <strong>of</strong> prevention worth a pound <strong>of</strong> cure?<br />
Julia Thompson June 09<br />
• Poster presentation: (37 th AASTN Conference)<br />
CS: Improving the quality <strong>of</strong> life in an ileostomy patient<br />
Arum Pratiwi Sept 09<br />
• Case study using Adapt rings to prevent appliance leakage<br />
Anne Onions June 10<br />
Therapeutics<br />
• Probiotics<br />
Teena Cornwall Sept 08<br />
• Medication awareness: loperamide hydrochloride for the<br />
treatment <strong>of</strong> a high output ileostomy<br />
Theresa Winston June 10<br />
• Medication awareness: topical corticosteroids for the<br />
treatment <strong>of</strong> irritant contact dermatitis<br />
Theresa Winston Sept 10<br />
WouNd MANAGeMeNT:<br />
• A study to evaluate the effectiveness <strong>of</strong> daily TenderWet<br />
Active 24 (R) dressings as a wound debridement agent<br />
Annie Thompson, Gaye Speed & Sunita McGowan Sept 08
• CS: Management <strong>of</strong> a complex faecal fistula within a<br />
wound dehiscence using Eakin and KCI Medical VAC<br />
Andrea Farrugia Sept 09<br />
• Poster presentation: (37 th AASTN Conference)<br />
CS: Management <strong>of</strong> an adolescent patient using a<br />
nanocrystalline dressing with probable pyoderma<br />
gangrenosum<br />
Lisa Kimpton Sept 09<br />
• Poster presentation: (37 th AASTN Conference)<br />
CS: Wound healing against all odds<br />
Renee Gilmour & Eileen Lim Joon March 10<br />
• Management <strong>of</strong> a scalp wound using topical negative<br />
pressure therapy<br />
Penny de Winter & Louise Walker March 10<br />
• Effective use <strong>of</strong> a faecal management system to aid healing<br />
<strong>of</strong> a grade 4 pressure ulcer<br />
Ian Whiteley March 10<br />
• Hollister CS: Wound management <strong>of</strong> enteric fistulae<br />
Petra Prokop Sept 10<br />
• Hollister CS: Hollister Adapt Barrier Seals (7805) used in<br />
conjunction with negative pressure therapy dressing to<br />
maintain moisture control in complex wounds<br />
Jennifer Daniels Dec 10<br />
coNTINeNce MANAGeMeNT:<br />
• CS: Management <strong>of</strong> chronic radiation proctitis<br />
Kara Torney June 10<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>eSSIoNAl ISSueS:<br />
AASTN AGM<br />
• News headlines: AASTN holds AGM via national tele-video<br />
for first time (President’s report)<br />
Leeanne White June 08<br />
• The AGM <strong>2010</strong><br />
Sharmaine Peterson June 10<br />
• Website Coordinator’s report<br />
Karen McNamara June 10<br />
• <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses <strong>of</strong> Newcastle give Birth OR<br />
Sharon Gibbins Dec 10<br />
<strong>Australian</strong> council <strong>of</strong> Stoma <strong>Association</strong>s (AcSA)<br />
• News and views from ACSA<br />
Gerald Barry (ACSA President) March 08<br />
• ACSA report: Partnerships in progress – AASTN / ACSA<br />
Peter McQueen (ACSA Vice President) Sept 08<br />
• <strong>Australian</strong> Council <strong>of</strong> Stoma <strong>Association</strong>s Inc. (ACSA) report:<br />
STNs and ostomates: an evolving relationship<br />
Peter Lopez Dec 08<br />
• News and views from ACSA<br />
Gerald Barry (ACSA President) March 09<br />
• A Partnership in progress continued<br />
Peter McQueen (Vice President ACSA) June 09<br />
• ACSA: The Australia Fund<br />
Bruce Harvey ACSA Sept 09<br />
• ACSA report<br />
Ed Webster, ACSA Dec 09<br />
• News and views from ACSA<br />
Gerald Barry (ACSA President) March 10<br />
• The partnership continues<br />
Peter McQueen (Vice President ACSA) June 10<br />
• ACSA report<br />
Norm Kelly (ACSA Secretary) Sept 10<br />
• ACSA report – <strong>2010</strong> review<br />
Peter Lopez (Member <strong>of</strong> ACSA Exec.) Dec 10<br />
AASTN education and Pr<strong>of</strong>essional development<br />
Subcommittee<br />
• Chairperson’s report – Workshop October 2007 (repeat)<br />
Cynthia Smyth March 08<br />
• Chairperson’s report – AGM March 2008<br />
Cynthia Smyth June 08<br />
• Chairperson’s report – AGM 2008<br />
Fiona Bolton June 09<br />
coalition <strong>of</strong> National Nursing organisations (coNNo)<br />
• CoNNO report<br />
Lesley Everingham Dec 08<br />
• CoNNO report<br />
Lesley Everingham & Wendy Sansom March 09<br />
• CoNNO report<br />
Lesley Everingham & Wendy Sansom Sept 09<br />
• CoNNO report<br />
Lesley Everingham & Wendy Sansom Sept 10<br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Issues<br />
• Seeking stories on the history <strong>of</strong> stomal therapy in Australia<br />
(Editorial)<br />
Diana Hayes June08<br />
• Patient story telling and qualitative nursing research<br />
Ian Whiteley June 08<br />
• Historical edition (Editorial including referencing)<br />
Diana Hayes Sept 08<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4 39
• A stomal therapy nurse abroad: a Canadian experience<br />
Patricia Sinasac Sept 08<br />
• HP: Pioneer stomal therapy nurses welcome a new group<br />
beginning their STN journey (WA)<br />
Lorrie Gray Sept 08<br />
• HP: Early stoma appliances in Australia<br />
Terry Carver (Ileostomy Ass Vic) Sept 08<br />
• Conference report: 1 st International paediatric enterostomal<br />
therapy convention – caring for children! Montreal, Canada<br />
Lisa Kimpton Sept 08<br />
• Behind the scenes: Phil Morton (Website Coordinator) and<br />
Robyn Simcock (AASTN Membership Coordinator)<br />
Sept 08<br />
• Credentialing report: Congratulations to all!<br />
Sue Delanty Sept 08<br />
• Congratulations to Fiona Bolton (Winner <strong>of</strong> Shelley Simper<br />
Award - SA)<br />
Sept 08<br />
• Congrats to Sarah Axman-Friend (AASTN Treasurer) on<br />
birth <strong>of</strong> Chloe<br />
Sept 08<br />
• <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy nursing: participation, publication and<br />
research (President’s report)<br />
Leeanne White Dec 08<br />
• Towards nurse practitioner status (Editorial)<br />
Diana Hayes Dec 08<br />
• Comparing the <strong>Australian</strong> and Danish health financing<br />
systems: a focus on health insurance and payment for<br />
medical services<br />
Diana Hayes Dec 08<br />
• WA stomal therapy nursing education programme 2008: a<br />
student perspective<br />
Beverley Offer Dec 08<br />
• Conference report: 17th Biennial WCET Congress<br />
Ljubljana, Slovenia<br />
Heather Hill Dec 08<br />
• Fostering key relationships (President’s Message)<br />
Leeanne White March 09<br />
• Obesity in Australia: a population health issue<br />
Diana Hayes March 09<br />
• Indonesian experiences<br />
Carmen George March 09<br />
• In fond memory – Kim Robyn Holland (Obituary)<br />
March 09<br />
40 Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4<br />
• Work and play (President’s message)<br />
Sharmaine Peterson June 09<br />
• Taking the journal forward (Editorial)<br />
Theresa Winston June 09<br />
• A global perspective: (37 th AASTN Conference) June 09<br />
Australia in review<br />
Leeanne White<br />
<strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> in New Zealand<br />
Sue Wolyncewicz<br />
The stomal therapy / wound care nurse in Indonesia<br />
Julie McCaughan<br />
China’s evolution<br />
Huo Xiaorong<br />
Iran – a new beginning<br />
Fariba Nasiri Ziba<br />
The meltdown in nursing<br />
Prilli d’E Stevens<br />
• New website coordinator (President’s message)<br />
Sharmaine Peterson Sept 09<br />
• Psychological aspects <strong>of</strong> caring for our patients with<br />
wounds or a stoma (Editorial)<br />
Theresa Winston Sept 09<br />
• Clinical leadership<br />
Katie Bird Sept 09<br />
• Position statement: Scope <strong>of</strong> nursing practice for stomal<br />
therapy nurses<br />
E&PDS Sept 09<br />
• Cairns 2011 (Victorian Conference Cmttee)<br />
Helen Nodrum Sept 09<br />
• Pr<strong>of</strong>ile: Sharmaine Peterson<br />
Sept 09<br />
• AASTN Membership fee structure notes<br />
Robyn Simcock Sept 09<br />
• Merry Christmas and Happy New Year (President’s message)<br />
Sharmaine Peterson Dec 09<br />
• Caring and Sharing (Editorial)<br />
Theresa Winston Dec 09<br />
• Pr<strong>of</strong>ile: Leigh Davies<br />
Dec 09<br />
• AASTN/SPAP report: AASTN/SPAP liaison contact<br />
Diana Hayes Dec 09<br />
• AASTN Membership fee structure notes<br />
Robyn Simcock Dec 09
• Diversity <strong>of</strong> a <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurse<br />
Theresa Winston March 10<br />
• More about working together<br />
Julie Bege March 10<br />
• Gastrointestinal Week 2009 report<br />
Sandy Hyde Smith March 10<br />
• How to write a journal article (Editorial)<br />
Theresa Winston June 10<br />
• Fast track surgery – should all components <strong>of</strong> fast track<br />
surgery be introduced into the <strong>Australian</strong> hospital system<br />
or certain aspects?<br />
Lisa Wilson June 10<br />
• Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS): report on<br />
multidisciplinary course in NZ<br />
Diana Hayes June 10<br />
• Continuing pr<strong>of</strong>essional development (CPD) made easier<br />
E&PDS June 10<br />
• Leaders in practice captured in paradise: Conference update<br />
Helen Nodrum June 10<br />
• Thirty years <strong>of</strong> the Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Australia<br />
Theresa Winston Sept 10<br />
• <strong>Stomal</strong> <strong>Therapy</strong> Nurses’ involvement in stomal therapy<br />
nursing activities in Western Australia<br />
Lorrie Gray Sept 10<br />
• <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy nursing in Indonesia<br />
Carol Stott Sept 10<br />
• Leaders in practice captured in paradise: Conference update<br />
Helen Nodrum Sept 10<br />
• Iran, an experience<br />
Carmen George Dec 10<br />
• <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy nurse: a year in the making<br />
Sally Langford-Edmonds Dec 10<br />
• Reflective Essay<br />
Katie Jane Bird Dec 10<br />
• Reflective Essay<br />
Colleen Pope Dec 10<br />
• BEECHAC Conference report<br />
Carol Stott Dec 10<br />
World council <strong>of</strong> enterostomal Therapists<br />
• WCET <strong>Australian</strong> delegate election forthcoming<br />
Carmen George March 08<br />
• WCET report: WCET 30 th anniversary<br />
Carmen George June 08<br />
• WCET report: Hello from your new WCET ID<br />
Brenda Sando Sept 08<br />
• WCET congress report: Ljubljana, Slovenia 2008<br />
Carmen George Sept 08<br />
• WCET report: Greetings from your Aussie ID!<br />
Brenda Sando Dec 08<br />
• WCET report: Happy New Year<br />
Brenda Sando March 09<br />
• WCET report: More conferences to come<br />
Brenda Sando June 09<br />
• WCET report<br />
Brenda Sando Sept 09<br />
• WCET report: Phoenix, Arizona <strong>2010</strong>, Adelaide, Australia<br />
2012<br />
Brenda Sando Dec 09<br />
• WCET report<br />
Brenda Sando June 10<br />
• WCET report<br />
Brenda Sando Sept 10<br />
• WCET report : Preparing for Cairns 2011<br />
Brenda Sando Dec 10<br />
AustrAliAn AssociAtion <strong>of</strong> stomAl therApy nurses inc.<br />
educAtion And pr<strong>of</strong>essionAl development subcommittee<br />
PoSitioN StatEMENt<br />
Scope <strong>of</strong> nursing practice for stomal therapy nurses<br />
It is recognised that stomal therapy nurses practise<br />
in a variety <strong>of</strong> settings and must operate in accordance<br />
with their scope <strong>of</strong> practice as determined by their<br />
relevant state registering body.<br />
Stoma appliance Scheme:<br />
updated schedules<br />
Available from the Department <strong>of</strong> Health website<br />
www.health.gov.au/stoma<br />
If the page does not show immediately, use the<br />
www.health.gov.au search system and you will find it by<br />
typing in stoma appliance scheme<br />
Journal <strong>of</strong> <strong>Stomal</strong> therapy australia – Volume 30 Number 4
ConvaTec Skin Care Accessories<br />
A natural part <strong>of</strong><br />
stoma care<br />
Stomahesive ® Paste, Stomahesive ® Powder and Orabase ® Paste all contain Pectin –<br />
an ingredient derived from citrus fruits. Used correctly, these accessories can help heal and<br />
protect peristomal skin. ConvaCare ® Barrier Wipes can help improve attachment and<br />
removal <strong>of</strong> the appliance whilst ConvaCare ® Adhesive Remover Wipes gently remove<br />
adhesive from the skin without the need for harsh soaps or scrubbing.<br />
Compatible with ConvaTec appliances and other pouching systems, ConvaTec skin care<br />
accessories can be considered a natural solution to peristomal skin protection.<br />
Skin care accessories are available from ostomy associations or call<br />
Australia: 1800 006 609<br />
ConvaTec (Australia) Pty Limited. ABN 70 131 232 570. Unipark Monash, Building 2, Ground Floor, 195 Wellington Road,<br />
Clayton VIC 3168 Australia. PO Box 63, Mulgrave, VIC 3170. Phone: (03) 9239 2700 Facsimile: (03) 9239 2743.<br />
® / Indicates trademarks <strong>of</strong> ConvaTec Inc. © <strong>2010</strong> ConvaTec Inc. November <strong>2010</strong>. O277<br />
Looking after peri-stomal<br />
skin is an essential part <strong>of</strong><br />
long-term stoma management.<br />
But sometimes a simple<br />
appliance is not enough.<br />
That’s why ConvaTec skin care<br />
accessories can serve as an<br />
important accompaniment to an<br />
ostomate’s daily routine.<br />
www.convatec.com