An “ostomy” or “stoma” is a surgically-created opening in your abdomen that allows waste or urine to leave your body. There are many medical conditions that require ostomy surgery. That is why there are different types of ostomy surgery including colostomy, ileostomy and ileal conduit (urostomy). Surgeons inform patients what type of ostomy they require and then refer patients to a Nurse Specialized in Wounds, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) at an ostomy care clinic. Patients may require access to a NSWOC throughout the duration they have their ostomy.
An NSWOC is a registered nurse who has specialized training in caring for patients with ostomies. We understand that every client and family has unique care needs.
Prior to a planned surgery, the NSWOC meets with the patient and family to review information, demonstrate the equipment, and answer questions. The NSWOC also plays a major role in patient rehabilitation after surgery.
The services that an NSWOC provides include:
Your physician may send us a referral or you may self refer for NSWOC services.
The following documents provide information for families and friends to help support patients before, during and after surgery. Each document provides a section on troubleshooting and a listing of helpful resource.
Nanaimo
NRGH Ostomy Clinic
Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, Speciality Care Clinic
Phone: 250-740-6926 Ext: 4
Fax: 250-740-6956
NRGH_NSWOC@islandhealth.ca
Victoria
Victoria Ostomy Care Center
Royal Jubilee Hospital (RJH), Diagnostic & Treatment Centre, Clinic 3
Phone: 250-370-8235
Fax: 250-370-8476
victoriaostomycareclinic3@islandhealth.ca
Port Alberni/West Coast
Contact Community Health Services NSWOC for inpatient and outpatient services
Phone: 250-731-1313
Fax: 250-731-1314
Comox Valley Hospital
Wellness Centre
Phone: 250-331-5900 Ext: 65353
Fax: 250-331-5903
Campbell River Hospital
Wellness Centre
Phone: 250-286-7100 Ext: 67203
Fax: 250-286-7123
