Abstract
Basic ostomy care can be intimidating because nurses don't often see colostomies, ileostomies, or urostomies. While there are as many different ostomies as there are people who have them, there are some commonalties in the care of the stoma. These can be generalized to all stomas, regardless of the type of output. Some care, however, is specific to the placement of the stoma and the type of effluent flowing from the opening. This article will provide the gastroenterology nurse an overview of the basic features of ostomies as well as routine ostomy care.