Discharge education is appropriate after a total colectomy with ileoanal reservoir when the patient says which statement?

Discharge education is appropriate after a total colectomy with ileoanal reservoir when the patient says which statement?

• A. Ulcerative colitis cannot be cured.
• B. Because of this surgery, I am at a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
• C. I am going to eat a hamburger and fries for dinner.
• D. I look forward to having the ileostomy closed.

Answer: (D)

The main idea being tested is understanding that the ileal pouch-anal anastomosis part of this surgery is designed to be temporary, with a planned reversal to restore normal bowel continuity. The discharge education target is to confirm the patient grasps that the ileostomy will be closed in a future operation and that the overall goal is to regain bowel function through the pouch rather than live with a permanent ostomy.

Saying they look forward to having the ileostomy closed shows they understand the treatment path: the current ileostomy is a step toward healing, and there is a definite plan to restore continuity by reversing the ostomy later. This reflects realistic expectations about recovery, stoma care, and the eventual improvement in quality of life after closure.

The other statements don’t fit as well because they don’t align with what usually follows this surgery. Ulcerative colitis removed with the diseased colon changes the disease status, so claiming it cannot be cured isn’t accurate in this context. Feeling at higher risk for colon cancer after the surgery isn’t correct since the colon is removed, reducing that risk (though some vigilance may remain for residual tissue). And while dietary choices matter, a casual dinner choice doesn’t demonstrate understanding of the temporary nature of the ileostomy and the plan for reversal.