What assessment finding of a stoma indicates it is retracted?

A stoma that is retracted is characterized by a concave or bowl-shaped appearance. This shape occurs when the stoma is pulled inward or does not protrude adequately from the surrounding skin, which can happen for a variety of reasons, including improper placement, healing issues, or tissue changes.

In contrast, a stoma that appears pinkish-red and moist is typically considered healthy and protrudes nicely from the abdominal wall, indicating good blood flow and viability. A narrowed and flattened stoma suggests a different kind of issue, possibly stenosis, while a dry and reddish-purple stoma points to compromised blood supply or irritation, which are not indicative of a retracted stoma.

Thus, recognizing the concave shape is crucial in assessing the stoma's condition and determining whether further evaluation or intervention is necessary.