Intestinal stomas are necessary for several colon and rectal conditions and represent a major change in the new ostomate's daily life. Though dehydration is the most frequent etiology requiring readmission, irritant contact dermatitis and a host of other peristomal skin conditions are more common complications for ostomates. Wound, ostomy, and continence nurses are invaluable resources to both ostomy patients and providers. A few simple interventions can prevent or resolve most common peristomal complications. Good stoma care is possible in a resource-poor environment.
Keywords: colostomy; enterostomal therapy; ileostomy; ostomy; peristomal skin complications.