Best Practice Guidelines for Ostomy Care in Neonates, Children, and Adolescents

Pediatric ostomy care nursing is primarily based on best practice principles; evidence supporting care remains sparse. Although many principles of ostomy care are similar across the life span, the indications for ostomy surgery and clinical approach differ when working with neonates, children, and adolescents. An international group of pediatric ostomy care experts was brought together to offer their expertise on caring for children with an ostomy. Best practice guidelines were developed based on literature review and consensus among expert panelists. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide a resource for best practices to health care professionals caring for pediatric patients with an ostomy. This article is divided into 2 sections: the first highlights clinical aspects of pediatric ostomy care, while the second addresses psychosocial aspects of ostomy care, including effects of an ostomy on the family. These guidelines address ostomy care and need within the full spectrum of the pediatric age groups, from neonates to adolescents.