Lydia undergoes a laryngectomy to treat laryngeal cancer. When teaching the client how to care for the neck stoma, the nurse should include which instruction?
A. “Keep the stoma uncovered.”
B. “Keep the stoma dry.”
C. “Have a family member perform stoma care initially until you get used to the procedure.”
D. “Keep the stoma moist.”
Correct Answer: D. “Keep the stoma moist.”
The nurse should instruct the client to keep the stoma moist, such as by applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly around the edges, because a dry stoma may become irritated.
Option A: The nurse should recommend placing a stoma bib over the stoma to filter and warm air before it enters the stoma.
Option B: The stoma should be kept moist to avoid irritation.
Option C: The client should begin performing stoma care without assistance as soon as possible to gain independence in self-care activities.