What’s an ostomy?
An ostomy is a surgically created opening in the abdomen to allow stool or urine to exit the body into a pouching system, for collection and elimination.
People get ostomies as a result of illnesses such as cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s, or diverticulitis.
Ostomies can be temporary or permanent. In almost all cases, quality and longevity of life is greatly improved, and allow people to return to their normal activities once healed.
Ostomy care in Downtown Vancouver
Patients may face a range of challenges with handling their pouching systems, leakage, digestive recalibration, skin irritations or breakdown, and variety of emotions after the creation of an ostomy.
Though the surgery cures the illness, it may come with a financial or confidence-altering burden. Some struggle with worry or self-esteem while they adjust to a new reality.
When clients first reach out with questions or concerns, we listen with care and consider their unique needs. In many cases, we can suggest simple solutions that ease discomfort, and improve confidence in the journey during recovery and ongoing.
For basic concerns, options range from minor lifestyle adjustments, to product changes or substitutions that may improve ease of use.
For more complex or medically related concerns, we have an NSWOC (Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Care) available for consultation by appointment, attended via phone, online, or in person.
At hand, we have access to resources for patients, including samples for new products, a guidebook for new ostomates, and information about the local chapter of United Ostomy Association of Canada.
Have questions or want to order ostomy supplies? Call us at 604-559-9952.
Meet Wendy
As our ostomy product advisor, Wendy has 18 years of experience and connections with health care providers, and representatives for all the major ostomy vendors in Canada.
She regularly liaises with care teams and NSWOCs (Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Care) at St Paul’s Hospital, VGH, Three Bridges Community Health Centre, Pender Clinic, and Heatley Community Clinic, as well as our on staff NSWOC.
Through regular communication and ongoing ostomy-related education, she endeavours to keep product knowledge and patient care up to date and personable.
