Terminal ileostomy output after food introduction will:

• A. Remain at a low volume
• B. Increase to 800-1700 cc/24 h and then stabilize
• C. Decrease significantly over time
• D. Stop entirely after a few days

Answer: (B)

When oral intake begins in someone with a terminal ileostomy, output rises because the colon is bypassed and cannot absorb water as before. The ileum continues to secrete fluids, and with food, more chyme and fluids reach the stoma, increasing the volume.

Over days to weeks, the intestine adapts and the output settles into a new, steady pattern. A common pattern after starting meals is a substantial but stabilizing volume, typically in the range of about 800 to 1700 mL per 24 hours.

So, this scenario reflects an initial rise in output with meals that then stabilizes within that higher range. It’s not expected to stay low, to steadily decrease to a small volume, or to stop entirely, since the ileum continues to produce fluids and absorb only limited amounts without the colon.