This course helps care workers and support workers feel confident supporting someone who is living with a stoma. Learners will understand what a stoma is, how to provide safe day-to-day support, how to protect dignity during very personal care, and when and how to escalate concerns.
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Explain what a stoma is and why someone may have one.
- Identify the three main types of stoma (colostomy, ileostomy, urostomy).
- Support safe pouch changes using good hygiene and skin care.
- Spot early signs of problems and know when to report concerns.
- Record observations clearly and accurately.
- Provide dignified, person-centred support – including for people who are distressed or embarrassed.
- Adapt their approach for people living with dementia.
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Overview
This online training course has been designed specifically for Care and Support Workers working in a social care setting. It may also be useful to a wider audience of people who would like to know more about Stoma Care .
Interactive Video Lessons, Assessment Quiz and a CPD Accredited Certificate
Subjects covered include:
- What a stoma is and why it’s needed
- Types of stoma (colostomy, ileostomy, urostomy) and normal output
- Safe day-to-day stoma support, including pouch changes and waste disposal
- Preventing soreness, leakage and infection
- When to escalate concerns and who to inform
- Protecting dignity, privacy and emotional wellbeing
- Supporting people who may feel anxious, low in mood or confused (including dementia)
- Short animated scenarios with reflection and knowledge checks
This course supports:
- Safe infection prevention practice in care settings
- Dignity, privacy, and person-centred care expectations across UK health and social care
- Accurate record keeping and timely escalation to senior staff / community nurses
- Clear communication using structured reporting (e.g. SBAR)
- Best practice promoted by UK stoma support organisations on comfort, independence, and emotional support
Hugh Asher, BSc (Hons), MSc (Merit), PhD (Applied Social Science)
As a course consultant, Hugh brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his role. His extensive background in working with individuals with diverse needs, combined with his passion for utilising nature as a therapeutic tool, allows him to provide valuable insights and guidance to learners.
Participants in the courses “Caring for People with Autism”, “Supporting People with Learning Disabilities”, “Mental Health Awareness” and “Mental Health, Dementia and Learning Disabilities” can expect to gain valuable skills and understanding in providing effective care and support.
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