OAGO
The Picture Frame
An Affiliate of
A publication of the
Ostomy
Association of
Greater
Orlando
Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando
May/June 2015
Circulation 500+
TM
www.ostomyassociationofgreaterorlando.com
MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS
See the President’s Message on Page 2
Saturday, May 16, 2015 @ 10:30 AM
NEWSLETTER CONTENTS
TO BE ANNOUNCED
Saturday, June 20, 2015 @ 11:45 AM
Summer Luncheon
Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant (Winter Park Corners)
1915 Aloma Avenue
Winter Park, FL 32792
Please RSVP by June 10th if you WILL be attending, either
by signing up at our May meeting or by email at
[email protected]
MEETING INFORMATION:
Winter Park Memorial Hospital
Library, 200 N Lakemont Ave. The
Library is adjacent to the parking
lot and has large black letters
“LIBRARY” above the entrance.
NORTH
H
LIBRARY
P
P
Mizell Ave.
Loch Lomond Dr.
MEETING LOCATION:
Aloma Ave. SR 426
N Lakemont Ave.
Our fellowship meetings offer an
exchange of valuable information
offered by our speakers,
members, and guests. All are
welcome, especially supporting
family and friends. Coffee is
provided and donated treats are
always welcome.
H = Hospital
P = Parking
If you are not a member, please join us. Our low annual dues
of $20.00 are not mandatory, but allow us to continue our
programs to help others. Donations to the Ostomy Association
of Greater Orlando, Inc. are tax deductible.
FOR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT
Evelyn Vihlen, Treasurer
418 Tulane Drive, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
407-862-6567
If not interested in receiving the Newsletter please call or write Evelyn Vihlen
DO YOU HAVE INTERNET ACCESS?
If you have internet access, you can help cut our costs by
electing to receive the newsletter via email. If interested, email
Pat Gessel at [email protected]. Thank You.
PLEASE DONATE YOUR UNUSED OSTOMY SUPPLIES
There are those who are homeless, unemployed, and without
insurance. If you have unused supplies bring them to our
meetings or call 407-862-6567 for information.
Donated supplies are given to those without insurance.
Page 1
OAGO Meeting Announcements and General Information.
Page 2
What’s going on at OAGO?
- President’s Message.
- We Need You! Calling All Ostomates!
- 2015 Youth Rally.
- UOAA’s 5th National Conference.
- In Memory of Mary N. Garrett and Donald J. Rudolph.
Page 3
Article: Urostomy Review.
Article: Ostomy Surgery and Depression.
Page 4
Newsletter Ad Prices.
Article: The Uncontrolled Colostomy.
Article: Some ABC’s of Urostomy Care.
Page 5
Article: Caring for Your Ostomy.
Article: When to Call the Doctor or Ostomy Nurse.
Travel Communication Card Information.
Page 6
Outpatient Ostomy Clinic Information.
Ostomy Supply Information.
Page 7
List of 2015 OAGO Contributors.
Article: Dehydration and the Ileostomy.
Article: Ostomates Guide for Hospitalization.
Page 8
List of OAGO Officers, Directors, and Advisors.
About Us.
Popular Ostomy Related Websites.
The Ostomates Prayer.
Note: Articles are approved by UOAA.
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1
What’s going on at OAGO ?
President’s Message
Dear Friends,
I hope this message finds everyone well! I would like to take a moment to thank the members that, despite ALL of our busy
schedules, continue to come to monthly meetings and show their support! I greatly appreciate your dedication and that you
choose to make OAGO an important part of your lives. Learning from each other is such a valuable component of our support
group and it has been wonderful sharing and growing as ostomates, together.
As spring approaches, it's a nice time to think about how each of us have blossomed or grown with the help of our ostomies.
Personally, I was able to gain my independence and grow as a confident adult. My ostomy not only saved my life, but gave it
back to me! I know that having an ostomy is not an easy adjustment, but I ask you to please take some time to think about and
appreciate your life. Lori Cohen, President
WE NEED YOU! CALLING ALL OSTOMATES!
Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando needs your "Time and Talent.” We desperately need new faces on our "Board of
Directors.” We all have busy lives, of course. So it is easy to just let someone else do the month to month work. But I for one
really need our group, and have volunteered for twenty years! All the time, loving meeting and helping new ostomates. Every
person has a different story and challenge.
There are so many ways we can help the group.
1. Help with decision making.
2. Speaker and meeting committee.
3. Refreshment committee.
4. Supply committee - picking up donated supplies and bringing them to meetings.
5. Welcoming committee.
6. Membership committee.
7 Marketing to doctors and nurses.
8. New officers! Lori is not going to devote the rest of her life to being President. She too has a life!
All these jobs would not take up great amounts of your time.
Come on kids! Always remember!
"Many Hands Make Light Work"
We need your hands!
Call us to let us know what you can help us with.
Shelley Dittmer - 407-929-3668, Lori Cohen - 407-399-8371, Evelyn Vihlen - 407-862-6567
Thank You,
Shelley Dittmer, Director and Past President
2015 YOUTH RALLY
The 2015 Youth Rally will take place July 13th - 18th at the University of Colorado in Boulder, Colorado. The annual rally allows
youths, with ostomies or facing ostomy surgery, the chance to meet others with the same physical condition so they know they
are not alone. This year, through the generous support of our members and friends, the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando
Inc. is again proud to support the Youth Rally with a donation of $1,000.00. This donation will cover camp costs, airfare, and
spending money for one youth. For more information contact Stephanie Crane, Youth Rally Director, at 612-669-9990.
Go to www.rally4youth.org to see the inspiring photos and videos of past rallies.
- UOAA's 5th National Conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency in St. Louis, MO from September 1-6, 2015.
For Conference details go to www.ostomy.org/2015_National_conference_page.html
- World Ostomy Day - Saturday October 3, 2015 - World Ostomy Day is recognized on the first Saturday in October.
Meeting Refreshments
We greatly appreciate the kindness of people who bring food to our meetings for all to enjoy. If anyone is planning to bring food,
please call Evelyn Vihlen at 407-862-6567, so we don’t have more than needed.
In Memory Of
We regretfully announce the passing of members Mary N. Garrett and Donald J. Rudolph.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to their family and friends.
“If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.”
Booker T. Washington
2
UROSTOMY REVIEW
Via GAOA Newsletter: UOAA Update March 2015
Diet: There are no eating restrictions as a result of Urostomy surgery. (If the kidneys have been severely impaired, your physician
will monitor your protein and salt intake, but the functions of your kidneys are not affected by the surgery.)
The urinary tract and digestive tract are separate. A few foods and certain medications may cause urine odor or a change in urine
color (such as asparagus, fish and certain spices). Drink plenty of liquids each day following the health care team's
recommendations.
Mucus: You normally have some mucus shreds in your urine. If the amount increases, if the urine changes color and has a strong
odor, it may signal that you have a urinary tract infection. Be sure to drink six to eight glasses of liquid a day, unless your physician
instructs you otherwise. Drinking fluids helps to decrease the amount of mucus in your urine.
Acidic Urine: Drink cranberry juice in place of orange juice or other citrus juices which tend to make the urine more alkaline. Take
vitamin C daily (if approved by your physician). Keeping your urine acidic may help to: (1) prevent urinary tract infections, (2)
prevent damage to your skin, and (3) decrease odor. Check the pH of your urine about twice a week to be sure the urine is acidic,
with a pH of less than 6.0.
Most fruits and vegetables actually give an alkalinized ash and tend to alkaline the urine. Meats and cereals will usually produce
an acidic ash. Unless otherwise indicated, the urine should be maintained in an acid state.
Fluid & Infection Management: People with urinary diversions no longer have a storage area, a bladder, for urine. Urine should
flow from the stoma as fast as the kidneys can make it. If your urinary stoma has no drainage after even an hour, it is of serious
concern. The distance from the stoma to the kidney is markedly reduced after urinary diversion surgery. Any external bacteria
have a short route to the kidney. Since kidney infection can occur rapidly and be devastating, prevention is essential.
•
Wearing a clean pouch and frequent emptying are vital.
•
Adequate fluid intake, particularly fluids that acidify the urine, will decrease problem odor.
•
In warm weather, with increased activity or with a fever, fluids should be increased to make up for body losses due to
perspiration and increased metabolism.
•
It is important that you be aware of the symptoms of kidney infection. Elevated temperature, chills, low back pain, cloudy
bloody urine and decreased output. If you experience these symptoms, see your physician.
•
Urine samples should never be collected from an existing pouch. The best way to collect a urine specimen is for a medical
professional to obtain it by catheterizing the stoma under sterile conditions.
OSTOMY SURGERY AND DEPRESSION
Edited By Bobby Brewer: UOAA Edits and Update March 2015
Sleeplessness, loss of appetite, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and/or irritability are some of the symptoms of depression. It
can be triggered by the inability to participate in normal daily pleasurable activities by a sense of helplessness and lack of control
over your body. Medications, stress, malnutrition, anesthesia or metabolic imbalance can also cause depression.
Other patients who have a harder time dealing with their ostomy are those who: (i) base their self-esteem on their physical
appearance, (ii) those with a take charge or "always in control" character (iii) the good Samaritan behavior (always the helper or
solver). Their ostomy, or lack of control over their bodies, and their need to depend on others for help, even if only temporarily, can
make coping difficult.
Constantly tired from efforts to cope with daily household or work routines, while learning to adapt to physical requirements to this
unpredictable new addition to your body, leaves little energy for enjoyment of leisure activities or romantic involvement. It takes us
some time to return to our normal lifestyle. So relax-do what you are capable of doing at this time and do not try to rush things.
You have had enough pain and deserve a vacation.
Give yourself a year for a good recovery and if it should happen to take a lot less time, consider yourself a very lucky person. In
the meantime, do what you have to do in whatever way you are capable of doing it. But do not give more than a passing thought
to the things you cannot do right now. You might have to take some shortcuts, do some improvising, or indulge in some healthy
neglect. Do not be bashful about asking for and accepting help. You would do the same for someone else if they needed help.
Some patients conceal their ostomy from their spouses, families or lovers because they fear rejection, feel shame or
embarrassment, are modest or have noticed evidence of disgust. This results in feelings of isolation, depression and chronic
anxiety. Most ostomates need a few months before they feel secure about being accepted. Join the crowd! You are not alone! We
all go through this.
Signs of Depression:
•
Physical - aches or pains, or other physical complaints that seem to have no physical basis. Marked change in appetite;
change in sleep patterns, and fatigue.
•
Emotional - pervasive sadness; anxiety; apathy; crying for no reason and indifference.
•
Changes in Behavior - neglect of personal appearance; withdrawal from others; increased use of alcohol/drugs; increased
irritability and restlessness.
•
Changes in Thoughts - feelings of hopelessness/worthlessness; inappropriate or excess guilt; forgetfulness and inability to
make decisions to take action.
NOTE: There are some cases of depression which can benefit most from professional help. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor.
“All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.”
Abraham Lincoln
3
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THE UNCONTROLLED COLOSTOMY
Montreal, Canada & Ostonoma News, CA: UOAA Update March 2015
Some people in the medical and nursing professions are under the impression that people who
have colostomies have very little difficulty in managing them, in comparison to people with
ileostomies or ileal conduit. Very often a patient is told that in time, he can learn to train the
bowel to evacuate once every 24 to 48 hours. This, they are told, can be achieved by either
irrigation of the colon or by diet, and then all that is required is a dressing over the colostomy or
a piece of colostomy equipment if more protection is desired.
While the above situation is true in a large number of cases, there are those who find it an
impossibility to regulate the bowel no matter what method they try. These people often become
discouraged, especially after hearing other colostomates report how well they manage with a
minimum amount of care, with no problems at all.
Usually the person who had an irritable colon prior to surgery will experience problems post-op.
Irrigations are recommended in these cases, to help regulate the colon. Persons in this
category should consider being measured for a good appliance, one that will keep them clean,
dry and odor free. This is a possible solution to this particular problem at the present time.
Note: There are some cases where a large amount of the colon and or ileum (small bowel) has
been removed. In that case, a colostomy can act more like an ileostomy, therefore CANNOT be
controlled. Best to check it out with your doctor.
SOME ABCs OF UROSTOMY CARE
Philadelphia Newsletter: UOAA Update May 2015
Adherence: Urinary appliances adhere well with cement Stomahesive® and Colly-Seel™. The
urinary stoma drains continuously. The urine may be mildly irritating to the skin and may be
odorous.
A group of 4 to 8 year olds
were asked, “What does
love mean?” See what you
think:
“If you want to learn to love
better, you should start with a
friend who you hate.”
Nikka - age 6
“Love is when your puppy
licks your face even after you
left him alone all day.”
Mary Ann - age 4
“Love is when my dad makes
coffee for my mommy and he
takes a sip before giving it to
her, to make sure the taste is
OK.”
Danny - age 7
Wound, Ostomy, Continence
Department
Bleeding: Often blood is noted in the appliance and its origin isn't immediately clear. One
source may be irritation of the stoma by uric acid crystals. These can be formed in the
appliance or on the skin around the stoma if the faceplate if too large. This may be indicated by
small white spots on the stoma upon removal of the appliance. The crystals have an abrasive
effect on the stoma. The crystals may be readily dissolved and the bleeding relieved by bathing
the stoma and the surrounding area with a half-strength vinegar solution. Do this three or four
times a day while the appliance is being worn.
Changing Appliances: Usually the best time to change a urinary appliance is in the morning
before drinking anything.
Closed Bottom: Only drainable pouches should be used on urinary stomas. Closed bottom
pouches should never be used.
Face Plate: A convex face plate may be extremely useful with the flush urinary stoma.
Fluid Intake: Two to three quarts of fluid daily provide adequate "traffic" through the urinary
system to prevent an increase in bacterial growth. (This can occur in a slow moving system.)
Increased bacterial growth may lead to urinary tract infection.
Leaking: Urinary pouches that are allowed to get too full will tend to leak. Connecting the pouch
to the leg bag will be helpful if you're unable to empty often enough. Attach the strap of the leg
bag loosely to allow good blood circulation.
Night Drainage: Bedside drainage bag or bottle, probably similar to the type you used in the
hospital, may be used for children and adults. This is how you can avoid getting up during the
night to empty the pouch. The average urinary pouch won't hold the amount of urine that may
be excreted during the night.
Odor: Drinking cranberry juice is helpful in deodorizing urine.
Plugging: You should NEVER use anything to plug your stoma while cleaning, changing or
emptying your bag. This could cause problems with your stoma.
601 East Rollins Street
Orlando, FL 32803
407-303-5600 extension 110-9271
Showers: You may shower with your skin barrier on and removing the pouch or you may take a
shower with the entire appliance off. It is found that if you chose to leave your skin barrier on,
using Pink Tape (available through your supplier) around the edges helps prevent water from
seeping in and compromising the seal. This also allows you to keep the skin barrier on longer
causing less stress and irritation to your skin. This applies to colostomates and ileostomates as
well.
“I don’t feel old, I don’t feel anything until noon. Then it’s time for my nap.”
Bob Hope
4
CARING FOR YOUR OSTOMY
By Pat Murphy, RN, CETN, Middle GA, Ostomy Rumble
UOAA Updated May 2015
Here are some simple pointers for ostomy care. They may not
be new, but sometimes it is good to be reminded of them.
Good ostomy care habits can catch and nip problems in the
bud-the rosebud that is.
Inspect your stoma and skin each time you change your skin
barrier. Your stoma should be bright red, smooth and shiny.
Inspect the lower edge especially well. Use a mirror if
necessary. Look for any signs of irritation or bleeding. These
signs may mean your skin barrier is rubbing there.
Your skin should not be pink, purple or gray, even right next to
the stoma. You may, however, notice some pink skin under
pressure points when you first remove the skin barrier from
your body. This is the same as when you take off your watch or
a pair of stockings and is normal.
Inspect your skin in a sitting position to see if creases or low
areas form around the stoma. This will tell you where to take
special steps to even out the area when you put on your skin
barrier. Stretching the skin to make it smooth may be all you
need to do, or you may need a dab of ostomy paste to help
seal the area.
COLON AND RECTAL
CLINIC OF ORLANDO
Phone: 407-422-3790 Fax: 407-425-4358 www.CRCOrlando.com
DOWNTOWN
NORTH
SANDLAKE
HEALTH CENTRAL
EAST
ALTAMONTE
If your stoma is not perfectly round, do not trace and cut a
round circle. Instead, make the skin barrier fit exactly. Your
ostomy nurse can show you how. It should just miss the stoma,
sealing down on the skin right next to it. Your skin barrier
should not go over any red, wet mucosal tissue, the kind that
forms the stoma. If you wear a pouch with a Karaya ring on it,
the ring should gently touch the stoma all around.
INSPIRATIONAL WORDS
Omaha Ostomy Digest 01/15: UOAA Update March 2015
110 W. Underwood Street, Suite A, Orlando
308 Groveland Street, Orlando
9430 Turkey Lake Road, Suite 118, Orlando
10000 W. Colonial Drive, Suite 483, Ocoee
7975 Lake Underhill Road, Suite 310, Orlando
616 E. Altamonte Drive, Suite 202, Altamonte Spgs
TRAVEL COMMUNICATION CARD INFORMATION
UOAA has prepared a card that travelers with medical
conditions or devices can present to TSA personnel. They also
have an additional card that may be helpful if you need
immediate restroom access (for example, on board the
airplane). Visit www.ostomy.org.
News From the TSA: TSA has launched TSA Cares, a toll-free
helpline to provide information and assistance to passengers
with disabilities and medical conditions before they fly. Call
TSA Cares toll free at 1-855-787-2227. Visit TSA’s website at:
www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/disabilityandmedicalneeds.
Na`Scent
Remember: a new stoma can change size for up to a year. Remeasure your stoma every time you change the skin barrier for
the first six months after surgery and every month thereafter.
Always re-measure if you are having a leak. Measure the
stoma at the base from side to side and from top to bottom.
Many stomas are oval. If you are cutting a skin barrier of a
one-piece pouching system, no skin should show when it is in
place. However, making sure the skin barrier doesn't touch the
stoma unless it is an extended-wear skin barrier manufactured
to be able to touch the stoma (these skin barriers are designed
to "turtleneck" where they touch the stoma). Since it can be
tricky to cut the opening to the correct shape without leaving
gaps around the stoma, manufacturers have developed skin
barrier seals and ostomy paste that can be used to fill the
gaps.
Paul R. Williamson, M.D., FASCRS, FACS
Andrea Ferrara, M.D., FASCRS, FACS
Joseph T. Gallagher, M.D., FASCRS, FACS
Samuel De Jesus, M.D., FASCRS, FACS
Renee J. Mueller, M.D., FASCRS, FACS
Mark K Soliman, M.D.
Ostomy Odor Eliminator
- More than freedom.
- More than security.
- Gives ostomates an odor-free life.
Contact: Shelley Dittmer, Member
407-929-3668
[email protected]
www.nascent4u.com
WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR OR OSTOMY NURSE
The Right Connection, Ostomy Assn. of San Diego
UOAA Update May 2015
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
If cramps last more than two or three hours.
If you get a deep cut in the stoma.
Excessive bleeding from the stoma opening or a
moderate amount in the pouch after emptying several
times.
Bleeding at the juncture of the skin and stoma.
Severe skin irritation or deep ulcers.
Unusual change in size or appearance of stoma.
Severe watery discharge lasting more than five or six
hours.
Strong odor lasting more than a week.
Any other usual occurrence regarding the stoma.
If you are depressed,
You are living in the past.
Note: See Page 6 for local and state outpatient ostomy clinics.
If you are anxious,
You are living in the future.
“When my wife and I travel together, she does all the
driving. All I have to do is turn the wheel and push the
pedals.”
If you are at peace,
You are living in the present.
Lao Tzu
From “Downtime” by Ron Dentinger, Comedian and Banquet Speaker
www.banquetspeaker.com
“We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its way through Congress.” Will Rogers
5
OUT PATIENT OSTOMY CLINICS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA
The Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando frequently receives
calls from individuals who are dealing with skin and product
issues. Below is information on outpatient ostomy clinics.
Orlando Health Wound Healing Center
Services Provided:
Comprehensive ostomy and fistula care are offered, as well as
pre-operative stoma site marking and teaching. Donations of
ostomy supplies are welcomed as we see many indigent and
homeless individuals.
Location:
Orlando Health Wound Healing Center
Lucerne Annex
818 Main Lane
Orlando FL 32801
DAYTONA
Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center
Location:
Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine
Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center
Center for Wound Healing
301 Memorial Medical Parkway
Daytona Beach, FL 32117
Ostomy Clinic Phone: 386-231-3615
Appointment and doctor's script/order required.
Insurance: Most insurances accepted. This facility is a
Medicare assigned provider and accepts Medicare Secondary
insurances.
Location Note: Above address is for the Hospital. The Wound
Healing Center is located just west of Main Lane at the
intersection of West Gore Street and Kuhl Avenues. The
entrance door to clinic is under the drive through canopy.
Ostomy Clinic Phone: 321-841-5469 FAX: 321-841-7470
Requirements: Appointment and doctor's script/order
required, along with demographic sheet, last progress note.
Insurance: Most insurances accepted. Medicare and
secondary insurance accepted.
Principal Staff:
Donna L Sellers, BSN RN CWON, Ostomy Clinic.
Karen Durigan, Nursing Operations Manager.
Central Florida Wound and Skin Consultants
Services Provided:
- NP-C/WOCN specialists provides ostomy evaluation and
refitting to homebound or ALF patients in their homes.
- We are a mobile ostomy, wound and lymphedema medical
practice caring for Medicare patients only.
- Our medical practice also specializes in customized hernia
support options.
- Preoperative education and stoma marking.
- Postoperative education on stoma management including
pouching system selection and education on self-care.
- Assistance with appliance fittings, pouching system failures,
peristomal skin loss, ulcers, and rashes.
- Management of complex, high output fistulas.
- Services also offered at Assisted Living Facilities in Orange
and Seminole County.
Phone and Fax: 407-359-6426
Requirements: No doctor's script/order required.
Insurance: We are Medicare providers and do not accept
HMO or PPOs. We bill direct to Medicare and secondary
insurances. Self pay rates: $175.00 for initial visit, $75.00 for
additional visits. We accept payment by cash or check.
Principal Staff:
Tabassum Merchant MS, WOCN, MSN, NP-C
Debbie Moulavi CWON, MSN, NP-C
Collaborating Physician: Rita Laracuente, MD
PALM BAY
Health First Outpatient Wound Center/Ostomy Clinic
Appointments on Wednesday’s only.
To schedule an appointment: 321-434-6100.
Appointment and doctor's script/order required.
OAGO GIFT ROOM
The Gift Room is stocked with donated unused ostomy
supplies that we collect and provide, free of charge, to fellow
ostomates who are uninsured or underinsured. This service is
run solely by the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando,
Inc. on a volunteer basis under Gift Room Director Evelyn
Vihlen. For information call 407-862-6567.
OSTO GROUP
This not-for-profit organization provides free ostomy supplies to
those without insurance. Your only cost is shipping and handling.
Call 877-678-6690 or visit their website at www.ostogroup.org.
FRIENDS OF OSTOMATES WORLDWIDE - USA
UOAA Update November 2014
The modern ostomy supplies we take for granted in the U.S.
and other developed countries may be unavailable or too
costly in many areas around the world. People resort to plastic
bags, rags, and duct tape, resulting in poor skin, odor, no jobs,
and no school. Since 1968, the Friends of Ostomates
Worldwide-USA (FOW-USA) has collected new supplies from
U.S. individuals and groups and sent them overseas where
needed. From Afghanistan and Cameroon to Zambia and
Zimbabwe, to over 70 countries, our shipments have made a
difference. You can too, with supplies and financial donations:
FOW-USA, 4018 Bishop Lane, Louisville, KY 40218. Phone:
502-909-6669 Website: www.fowusa.org
Medical Supplies & Services Since 1953
Home Health Care Centers
www.Binsons.com
About Tabassum Merchant and Debbie Moulavi:
Board certified nurse practitioners with a speciality in wound
and skin disorders. Additional training through WOCN Program
at Emory University. We are also known as NP/ET/WOCN
specialist. Able to write prescriptions and provide a medical
service for the treatment of ostomy related disorders.
“Nurses are the heart of healthcare.”
Out Patient Ostomy Clinics in Central Florida continued
2069 Aloma Avenue
Winter Park, FL 32792
Phone: 407-679-2135
Fax: 407-671-7303
Ostomy Supplies
and Medical Equipment
762 E. Altamonte Drive
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Phone: 407-691-3009
Fax: 407-691-3021
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, and Saturday 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
To report abuse, neglect, or exploitation call 1-800-962-2873
Donna Will Cardillo
6
We thank our OAGO members and
those named or anonymous below
who gave additional support to
our programs in 2015.
Binson’s Home Health Centers
Newsletter Ad
Colon & Rectal Clinic of Orlando
Newsletter Ad
Florida Hospital
Youth Rally
John Yeater
Youth Rally, Gift Room Rent
Jack & Carol Ann Vreeland
Gift Room, Gift Room Rent
Elizabeth Kardatzke
Programs, Youth Rally, Gift Room
Sherman G Miller
Youth Rally
Thomas P & Mary E Martin
Gift Room Rent
Neal Mengel
Gift Room Rent
J Robert Deem
Gift Room
Pamela Richardson
Programs
Rose Cuozzo
Programs, Youth Rally, Gift Room
Richard Brenneman
Programs, Youth Rally, Gift Room
Howard L Kaskel
Programs
Fran Murawski
Gift Room
Robert Zuleeg
Programs
James R Bell
Programs
Kay Cobb
Gift Room
Henry Hartmann
Programs
Jean Nicoletti
Programs
Shabbir Adam
Programs
Selena Rucker
Gift Room
Irene Fortuna
Gift Room
Ricky Norris
Gift Room
DEHYDRATION AND THE ILEOSTOMY
By Terry Gallagher, UK (Edited & Excerpted): UOAA Update March 2015
In someone with a working colon, the colon is responsible for absorbing most of the water we
drink and that is contained in our food. In addition, electrolytes such as sodium and potassium,
essential to maintaining good health, are absorbed there. Removal or disconnection of the
colon immediately causes the first problem because of the removal of the ileo-valve. This valve
is between the ileum (or small intestine) and the colon where the appendix is attached. Its
purpose is to hold back the food in the ileum to enable it to be absorbed better.
As an ileostomate, when we lost this valve, food and water pass through our digestive system
faster, so less is absorbed, often accounting for weight loss when a person first recovers from
the surgery. The ileum does absorb more water to compensate, but still absorbs much less than
the colon did. Waste from the ileum normally has about 30% of the water remaining, while
waste from a colon has about 10% remaining - quite a difference. In addition, the ileostomate
loses ten times as much sodium and potassium as someone with a colon.
Because of all this, anything which upsets the balance in our bodies has a much faster effect,
as well as happening much quicker than in a person with a working colon. A typical example is
gastroenteritis. A person with a working colon with the same degree of infection may be sick
and have diarrhea for a couple of days, whereas someone with an ileostomy may well end up
in the hospital as an emergency. This may apply to other problems with upset the digestive
system's balance as well as gastroenteritis. When these occur, a person with a working colon
experiences nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal cramps, sometimes bloody diarrhea and signs
of dehydration (including the veins on the back of the hands and elsewhere becoming invisible).
Those of you with an ileostomy may fill up very rapidly with fluid. On emptying, the pouch can
refill in minutes. You may feel nauseous and develop abdominal discomfort. You may rapidly
begin to experience the symptoms of dehydration, which dry mouth, decreased or virtually nonexistent urine output, heart irregularities and dry skin. In many cases, you can see urine out has
ceased. This is a medical emergency!
If hospitalized for dehydration, the ileostomate may expect iv solutions to be given. The fluid
given will be saline, potassium, or potassium and glucose to replace those essential
electrolytes lost as mentioned earlier. Expect an EKG (to check for heart problems), bloods to
be taken and stool and urine samples (to check for infection), and check and abdominal x-rays.
Dehydration treatment can also lead to kidney damage, which may be permanent, requiring
lifelong dialysis or a transplant.
If you become ill with diarrhea, vomiting and fever that persist and you find yourself with a
pouch which is filling and refilling with fluid and start to develop a dry mouth with abdominal
pains, seek emergency treatment immediately. Normal people may sneer that we're making a
lot of fuss for a simple "tummy ache", but we're not! It can be much more serious for us than for
people with working colon.
OSTOMATES GUIDE FOR HOSPITALIZATION
By Lindsay Bard, MD: UOAA Update March 2015
It is important for a person with an ostomy who needs to be hospitalized, to know that he/she
should be handled differently than someone without an ostomy and how.
Rule 1 - The Cardinal Rule!: If you feel something is being done or going to be done to you that
might be harmful, refuse the procedure. Then explain why to the medical personnel, especially
your physician. They will then decide with you, if the procedure will actually be in your best
interest.
Rule 2 - Supplies: Bring your own supplies to the hospital. Never assume the hospital will have
the exact pouching system or irrigation system you use. Most hospitals have some supplies
available. These are used for emergency situations.
Rule 3 - Instructions: Take to the hospital two copies of instructions for changing and irrigating
your pouch.
Rule 4 - Communicate!!!
Again, let me stress that you communicate with the hospital
personnel who take care of you. You will have a better hospitalization and they will have an
easier time treating you.
“Give her a day, and then in return Momma gives you the other 364”
Will Rogers
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Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando
Officers
President
Lori Cohen 407.399.8371
[email protected]
Vice President
Patrick Gessel 801.558.3074
[email protected]
Past President
Secretary
Marie McDuff 407.297.8053
Treasurer
Evelyn Vihlen 407.862.6567
Board of Directors
Marketing Director
Shelley Dittmer 407.929.3668
[email protected]
Past President
Director and Web Editor
Bob Woodrow 407.297.8053
Gift Room Director
Evelyn Vihlen 407.862.6567
Youth Rally Director
Stephanie Crane 612.669.9990
Mentor-Visitation Team
For assistance pleased call:
Lori Cohen 407.399.8371
[email protected]
Newsletter Editor
Patrick Gessel 801.558.3074
[email protected]
Advisors
Physicians
Thomas B. Blake III, MD
Sergio W. Larach, MD, FACS, FASCRS
Renee Mueller, MD FASCRS FACS
Wound Ostomy and Continence Nurses
Florida Hospital
Sloan Bartlett, MSN RN CWOCN
407.303.5600 Extension 110-9271
Winter Park Memorial Hospital
Terry Barton, BSN RN CWOCN
407.646.7523.
Ambassador for the Youth Rally Committee, Inc.
Kate Markwith
THE PHOENIX, UOAA’s MAGAZINE
The Phoenix is a great source of information. The
Phoenix is also available as an online version for
$19.95. You can subscribe to the hard copy or online
version by using the form on this page or by visiting
their website at www.phoenixuoaa.org.
$29.95
$49.95
ABOUT US: The Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando, Inc. is an IRS 501(c)(3)
tax-exempt charitable corporation in the State of Florida with “umbrella” status
under our parent company, United Ostomy Associations of America, Inc. We are
an all volunteer support group dedicated to assisting people who have or will have
intestinal or urinary tract diversions by providing emotional support, family support,
educational services, advocacy, and promoting the services of this organization to
the public and professional communities.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Articles and information printed in this newsletter are not necessarily endorsed by
the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando, Inc. and may not be applicable to
everyone. Please consult your doctor or WOC Nurse for medical advice that best
suits your specific situation.
POPULAR OSTOMY RELATED WEBSITES
www.ostomy.org
United Ostomy Associations of America (800-826-0826) is an association of
Affiliated Support Groups. UOAA serves people with ostomies and other intestinal
and urinary diversions through its affiliated support groups. UOAA is a member of
the International Ostomy Association. Their website has a large discussion board
with over 10,000 topics posted by ostomates. Individuals can join UOAA simply by
joining the Ostomy Association of Greater Orlando.
www.ostomyassociationofgreaterorlando.com
Our website contains information on our support group including meeting calendar,
directions to our meetings, new member application, useful links, list of ostomy
suppliers, helpful articles, and much more.
www.Ostomy.Inspire.com
The Inspire Ostomy Support Group is a great way to meet and connect with a
community of people who understand what you’re going through. ConvaTec
partnered with Inspire to create this social network where people with ostomies
can gain emotional and informational support.
www.c3life.com
A website dedicated to helping people with ostomies live their lives to the fullest.
Supported by Hollister Inc., c3life.com is part of Hollister’s mission to help make
life more rewarding and dignified for those with ostomies.
www.meetanostomate.com
Provides a free collection of real-life tips and tricks from ostomates.
www.ostomates.org/
The aim of “Shaz’s Ostomy Pages” is to give you as much information as possible
regarding ileostomy, j pouch, colostomy, urostomy, or any type of stoma surgery.
It’s for ostomates by ostomates.
www.ostomyland.com/
Has provided ostomy support since 1998, including interactive support, chat,
blogs, lifestyle guidance, lists of ostomy product manufacturers, and ostomy
undergarment and accessory manufacturers.
www.uncoverostomy.com
IDEAS, or the Intestinal Disease Education and Awareness Society, is a registered
Canadian charity that works to eliminate the stigma associated with intestinal
diseases through education and awareness.
www.google.com
Type “youtube” in the google search box, then type “ostomy” in the youtube search
box. All the audio/visual guidance you could ever want.
THE OSTOMATES PRAYER
Oh Lord, as we have been reborn, let us multiply our good fortune and share it with those
ostomates who do not know how good the life you have given us can be. Let us vow in the
years ahead to renew the work of our group, as you have renewed our lives. We thank you
for our lives, for the mutual support of each other, and for the chance you have given
us to help others. Amen. Via the Clermont County Chapter, the Batavia OH Chapter, and Indianapolis IN Chapter
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