GI ostomies are classified by which single factor?

• A. Continence status
• B. The segment of the intestine or colon used to form the stoma
• C. The length of the stoma when formed
• D. The patient's age

Answer: (B)

GI ostomies are classified by the segment of the intestine used to create the opening. This matters because the source of the stool determines output characteristics, management needs, and skin care considerations. An ileostomy comes from the ileum and tends to produce more liquid, enzymatic output with higher electrolyte loss, requiring specific appliance and skin protection. A colostomy comes from the colon and usually yields more formed stools, with management and irrigation considerations varying by the colon segment (ascending, transverse, descending, sigmoid). Length of the stoma or patient age don’t define the category, and continence status is important clinically but doesn’t determine the basic classification.