When a colostomy is newly created, what should the nurse inform the client about possible stoma characteristics?

When a colostomy is newly created, it is important to understand that some slight bleeding may occur upon touching the stoma. This is due to the fact that the stoma is made of delicate tissue that can be sensitive and prone to minor trauma when manipulated. The stoma is essentially an extension of the bowel and can have a rich blood supply, so it is normal for there to be some blood vessels close to the surface.

In contrast to other statements, realizing that slight bleeding might be a possibility reflects an understanding of the normal healing process and vascularity of the stoma tissue. It is also important for the nurse to educate clients that they should not be alarmed by a small amount of bleeding, but rather be vigilant for any abnormal or excessive bleeding that could indicate a problem.

Other statements do not adequately represent the typical characteristics of a stoma. A completely bloodless stoma is not typical due to its vascular nature, and while profuse bleeding could indicate a complication and should not be considered normal. Lastly, a stoma that appears dry and pale would indicate poor blood supply, which is not desirable and could be a cause for concern. Therefore, informing the client about the possibility of slight bleeding upon touching helps in setting realistic expectations