In managing a patient with a colostomy, which nursing intervention is most appropriate at discharge?

Providing written instructions on care is crucial when managing a patient with a colostomy at discharge. This intervention ensures that the patient has a clear and accessible reference for their ongoing care needs, which is vital for maintaining the integrity of the colostomy site and preventing complications.

Written instructions can include information about how to change the colostomy bag, skin care around the stoma, signs of potential complications to watch for, and general hygiene practices. These instructions serve not only as a reminder for the patient but also enhance their confidence in managing their own care independently.

While the other options are important aspects of patient education and follow-up care, they do not provide the same level of immediate, practical guidance that written instructions do. For instance, ensuring follow-up with a physician is necessary for ongoing medical assessment, but it does not directly address the patient's immediate self-care needs after discharge. Discussing dietary restrictions is important for managing the patient's diet post-colostomy; however, without solid care instructions, a patient may struggle more with the everyday aspects of their colostomy care. Teaching the patient how to recognize signs of infection is essential knowledge, yet it is often included in comprehensive care instructions.

Overall, the focus on providing written instructions ensures that