11. Food Blockage (As Related to an Ileostomy)

Patient is able to identify potential complications, preventive measures for, and management of, food blockage (as related to an ileostomy).

A food blockage is an accumulation of undigested food particles in the intestine, which are not able to pass through the ileostomy.

There are specific signs and symptoms of a food blockage which patients need to be taught:

• stool may change from semi-liquid to liquid
• amount of stool may increase
• ileostomy may function almost continuously
• stool may have a noticeable odour
• abdominal cramping or pain
• abdomen may feel bloated
• nausea/vomiting may be present
• if blockage complete – no stool will be passed

If signs of a food blockage are present, the patient should be taught to:

• walk, or assume a knee-chest position
• massage the abdominal area
• take a warm bath or shower
• drink warm fluids
• avoid food

If symptoms do not subside within a few hours, the patient should be encouraged to go to their local Emergency Department.

Food blockages are often resolved with IV hydration, nothing by mouth, and time. A bland, low fibre diet with increased fluids is encouraged for a few days following a blockage.

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