Our Services

Enterostomal Therapy

Description of Services

Enterostomal therapy is a specialized field of nursing involving the care of patients with stomas, incontinence, dermal ulcers and other select skin conditions or those needing wound care. Therapists provide acute and rehabilitative care to children with disorders of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary and integumentary systems that require the surgical creation of an ostomy (stoma). One of the primary goals of enterostomal therapy is to facilitate a child’s transition from the hospital to the home. The enterostomal therapy nurse provides children and their families with the education necessary for independent care at home, as well as education to prevent and treat certain stomal complications and skin problems. The outpatient clinic provides an opportunity for follow-up care by the enterostomal therapy nurse so:

Previous education can be reinforced
Alterations can be made in the plan of care, if needed
Emotional support can be provided
Stoma and skin problems can be resolved

Referral Requirements

Referrals are required from primary care physicians or other Children’s Hospital specialty services. Referrals for patients enrolled in managed care insurance plans also may require authorization from the insurance provider and primary care physician. All necessary referral and authorization forms must be received before the patient’s visit. For accurate provider numbers or more information, please call the office number listed.