If you’re about to get ostomy surgery, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: as an ostomate, you’re entitled to certain patient rights during the period in which you’re undergoing ostomy surgery.
Watch the video below, created in collaboration with the United Ostomy Associations of America, to learn more about the ostomy bill of rights in the period as you’re getting your ostomy or continent diversion surgery.
The Bill of Rights for Ostomy and Continent Distraction Patients is a tool created by the United Ostomy Associations of America, Inc. to help patients empower themselves to care for themselves and improve outcomes. It is designed to empower those living with an ostomy (temporary or permanent) or continent diversion. It identifies the needs and expectations for those in need of this type of surgery and for the community of people currently living with an ostomy or continent diversion. It outlines evidence-based recommendations for the best quality, in-practice ostomy care for healthcare professionals.
To achieve a desirable quality of life, a person undergoing ostomy or continental diversion surgery must have access to high quality care in all health care facilities. Advice, care, and training as described in the living will should be provided by a certified healthcare professional such as a certified wound ostomy continence nurse, certified ostomy nurse, ostomy management specialist, or ostomy care assistant.
Disclaimer: The following rights / standards of care may be limited or impaired due to surgery pending circumstances
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