Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Question: 1 / 595

When is the appropriate time to empty a colostomy bag?

When it is half full

After every meal

When it is one-third full

The appropriate time to empty a colostomy bag is when it is one-third full because this practice helps to maintain the integrity of the bag and prevent leakage or skin irritation. By ensuring that the bag is emptied when it reaches this level, caregivers can effectively manage the weight and pressure on the stoma, which can lead to complications if not addressed in a timely manner.

It is essential to empty the bag before it becomes too full, as waiting until it is half full or more can lead to discomfort for the individual and increase the risk of leakage. Additionally, while some people might consider emptying after every meal, this could be unnecessary and not based on the actual fullness of the bag. Routine emptying every 12 hours may not account for individual variation in output, especially if the patient has a high-output stoma, making one-third full a more practical guide for maintenance.

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Every 12 hours

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