What is the first step a patient care technician should take when performing ostomy care?

The first step a patient care technician should take when performing ostomy care involves measuring the opening of the stoma. This process is essential because stomas can vary in size and shape, and accurate measurement is crucial for creating an appropriate fitting for the ostomy pouch. Ensuring that the ostomy wafer has a properly measured opening prevents skin irritation and leakage, which are common complications in ostomy management.

After measuring the stoma, healthcare providers must choose an ostomy pouch with a matching opening. This ensures a snug fit around the stoma, providing both comfort and security for the patient. While cutting an opening in the wafer is a necessary step in the overall process of ostomy care, it comes after establishing the correct measurement. Other essential steps like cleansing the skin and applying a protective barrier are also important but generally follow the measurement for proper fitting.