National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which type of colostomy is consistent with producing solid stool regularly?

1. Ascending

2. Descending

3. Sigmoid

4. Transverse

The correct answer is: Sigmoid

The sigmoid colostomy is the type of colostomy that is most consistent with producing solid stool regularly. This is due to its anatomical positioning in the digestive tract. The sigmoid colon is the last part of the colon before the rectum, and it typically involves more water absorption, resulting in drier, more formed stool. Consequently, individuals with a sigmoid colostomy can anticipate more regular bowel movements that resemble those of individuals without a colostomy. In contrast, ascending colostomies are located in the right side of the abdomen and tend to produce liquid stools, as this section of the colon is primarily responsible for the absorption of only a small amount of water. The transverse colostomy usually produces semi-solid output because it is positioned in the middle of the colon, but it can still have more variability than a sigmoid colostomy. The descending colostomy, while also located further along the colon, can produce more formed stool than ascending or transverse, but it is the sigmoid colostomy that is most consistent with regular formation and consistency of stool.