Fistula Management of Large Complex Wounds

Fistula Management of Large Complex Wounds

Fistula management is one of the most challenging patient care competencies for Wound Ostomy Continence Nurses and staff nurses.  Containment of effluent from large wounds with pouching systems can be expensive and very complicated as well as time consuming.  The purpose of this abstract is to describe the procedure for containment of fistula output and preservation of skin integrity when standard pouching systems will not work.  The procedure defines and illustrates a simple, cost effective pouching technique with 5-6 easy to follow steps.  The goal of fistula management is to contain and quantify effluent while allowing for dressing changes that are performed by staff nurses. Secondary goal of this pouching technique is that it will remain in place , without leakage, for at least 48 hours.