Which finding indicates a compromised stoma?

• A. Red and moist
• B. Bluish color
• C. Pink and dry
• D. Bright red and protruding

Answer: (B)

The main idea is recognizing stoma viability through color and moisture. A healthy stoma is pink to red and moist, with a gentle protrusion above the skin. A bluish or purple discoloration, however, signals compromised blood flow and possible ischemia, which can lead to tissue damage if not addressed promptly. That cyanotic appearance is the warning sign that the stoma may not be receiving adequate oxygenated blood. By comparison, red and moist describes a normal stoma, pink and dry suggests inadequate moisture which is not typical of a healthy stoma, and bright red and protruding usually indicates good perfusion.