Stoma lumens that are on the side of the stoma create what?

• A. Increased mucus production
• B. No impact on pouching
• C. Difficulty with pouch adherence due to leakage and skin irritation
• D. Faster healing

Answer: (C)

When the stoma lumen is on the side, the pathway of output isn’t aligned with the pouch opening. This sideways arrangement tends to push stool toward the edge of the flange, making it harder for the wafer to form a complete, airtight seal. Leaking at the seal leads to skin exposure to stool, causing irritation and dermatitis. That skin disruption, in turn, further compromises adhesion of the pouch. So the main issue isn’t more mucus, nor a neutral impact on pouching, nor faster healing—the side position creates a leakage-prone scenario that makes pouch adherence difficult and irritates the surrounding skin.