Which of the following is a parameter evaluated for peristomal skin?

• A. Temperature
• B. Blood pressure
• C. Oxygen saturation
• D. Color

Answer: (D)

Evaluating peristomal skin relies on what you can see at the skin surface, and color changes provide the most direct information about local skin health. The color of the skin around the stoma reflects perfusion, inflammation, and moisture balance. A healthy area is typically pink and intact; redness near the appliance margin can indicate irritation or dermatitis from adhesive or leakage; paleness may suggest reduced blood flow or early breakdown; a dusky or dark hue can signal more severe ischemia or bruising; yellow or brown staining can point to infection or prolonged moisture with maceration. Because these color cues appear right at the surface and respond quickly to changes in the barrier, leakage, or skin care, color offers the clearest, most actionable assessment of peristomal skin.

Temperature, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation measure systemic or generalized status and are not specific indicators of the local condition of peristomal skin, so they don’t provide the same immediate, actionable information as color does.