About the service
The colon and rectum are parts of the gut (gastrointestinal tract). We diagnose and treat a variety of colorectal problems at our Trust.
If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer (more commonly referred to as bowel, or colon cancer) we know this can be an anxious time for any patient and their families. The colorectal nurse specialist provides advice, support and information to patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer and their families.
As the patient’s key worker the role of the colorectal nurse specialist involves coordinating and liaising with the multidisciplinary team at each stage of the patient journey following diagnosis. A nurse led colorectal cancer follow up clinic is held on a weekly basis.
Our colorectal and stoma care nursing team provide clinical expertise, information and support to patients with a wide range of bowel disorders. We have also developed a functional bowel service that provides support to patients with constipation and faecal incontinence.
The word stoma is derived from a Greek word meaning mouth or opening. To form a stoma part of the bowel is brought out onto the surface of the abdomen (tummy) and bowel waste or urine is collected in a bag.
Our stoma care nurse provides specialist advice, information and support to patients with a bowel or urinary stoma and their families or carers. This could be in hospital, and if needed, also at home. Our stoma care nurses are highly trained that they also act as a resource for other healthcare professionals. A nurse led stoma clinic is held twice weekly onsite at Bensham Hospital. The management of complex open abdominal wounds and fistula is also undertaken by the stoma care nurse.
Further information and support services
Beating Bowel Cancer – 08450 719 300
Macmillan Cancer Support – 0808 808 0000
National Association for Colitis and Crohns Disease (NACC) – 0845 130 2233
The Colostomy Association – 0800 328 4257
Ileostomy and Internal pouch Support Group – 0800 0184 724
Urostomy Association – 0845 241 2159
