What are two goals of a convex barrier?

• A. Aims to seal moisture and reduce skin irritation
• B. Increases stoma size and reduces adhesive
• C. Increases skin friction and reduces leakage
• D. Helps pull stoma up and attempts to create a flat surface

Answer: (D)

A convex barrier is designed to improve the seal around the stoma by shaping the interface between skin and the appliance. Its two main goals are to make the stoma protrude outward, so the opening of the barrier aligns better with the stoma and reduces gaps where leakage can occur, and to create a flatter, more even surface around the stoma so the barrier can sit securely against the skin even if the abdomen isn’t perfectly smooth. This combination helps achieve a tighter seal and lowers the risk of leakage.

Other options don’t fit because they describe effects not central to convex barriers: moisture sealing and skin irritation are general benefits of good fitting, but not the primary mechanical goals of convex design; increasing stoma size or adhesive, or increasing skin friction, aren’t how convex barriers function.