Enhancing patient outcomes through proactive stoma care.

A well-sited stoma can reduce the risk of complications such as leakage, which in turn can damage skin. Although many patients may experience problematic skin, this should not be considered an acceptable norm; people with a stoma should have confidence in their appliance to continue their usual lifestyle. The Nursing and Midwifery Council code states that nurses must always practise in line with the best available evidence. With increasing demand for healthcare and limited financial resources, there are ongoing challenges to deliver care at the required level. A recent advance in stoma care includes adhesive flanges permeated with skin-friendly ingredients. In line with value-based procurement and Getting it Right First Time, the stoma care clinical nurse specialist should consider being proactive in their approach and look to use these products before the patient experiences problems rather than waiting until a problem occurs.