This special podcast is part of the Ostomy Observations Series, a 6-part series included in the “Educating Today for Exceptional Outcomes Tomorrow” Program.
In this episode, Michelle Rice explores the complexities of caring for pediatric ostomy patients. She highlights condition that commonly lead the pediatric population to need ostomies the top three conditions affecting this population and dives into the unique challenges healthcare professionals face in managing these cases. Emphasizing the importance of individualized care, Michelle explains how treatment plans are customized for each child.
She also offers practical insights into the tools and resources used in her practice, from age-specific teaching materials to strategies for selecting ostomy products. Other key topics include pre-operative education and site marking, emotional self-care for healthcare providers, and preparing children with ostomies for returning to school.
Both the Ostomy Observations podcast series and the Educating Today for Exceptional Outcomes Tomorrow Program are commercially supported through an educational grant from Hollister Incorporated. For additional information, please visit wocn.org/exceptionaloutcomes. The WOCN® Society does not endorse or support products or services.
Episode Resources:
WOCN Society Pediatrics Community and Ostomy Community for members only
JWOCN® evidence-based articles on pediatric care
Pediatric Ostomy Support Group (POGS) by the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA)
Youth Rally, Pull-thru Network, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Girls with Guts, Shadow Buddies Foundation
About the Speaker:
Michelle Rice, MSN, RN, CWOCN, has been a WOC nurse since 1999 and currently practices at Duke University Hospital. Michelle’s primary population is pediatrics and focuses on wound care and ostomy care.