If no stool is passed after 6-12 hours of having an ileostomy, what should be done?

In the context of managing an ileostomy, if no stool is passed after 6-12 hours, it is crucial to contact the provider. This time frame is significant because it indicates that the output from the ileostomy is either severely delayed or possibly obstructed, which can lead to complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and potential bowel obstruction.

Contacting the provider allows for timely assessment and intervention, ensuring the patient receives appropriate care. The medical team may need to evaluate for possible causes of the lack of output, such as obstruction or ileus, and may consider diagnostic procedures or treatments to address the issue and prevent further complications.

While assessing dietary intake, hydration status, and changing the ostomy bag may be part of general management and care for patients with an ileostomy, they do not address the urgent need for medical evaluation when no stool passes within the expected time frame. This makes contacting the provider the most appropriate action in this situation to ensure patient safety and health.