Milestone for AHS stomal wound clinic
15/11/2024
The new Outpatient Stomal Wound Care Clinic at Armadale Health Service (AHS) reached a milestone this month, helping its 100th patient since the clinic opened in May 2024 for a 12-month trial.
This service allows patients like Marlene Fenton, 84, to seek treatment for their complex wounds or stomas from Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Tari Magunda.
Open twice a week and staffed just by Tari, the clinic has been welcomed by patients in the Armadale area who no longer need to travel to other hospitals to access outpatient services.
Five weeks ago, Marlene was shopping and trying to lift a carton of long-life milk off the shelf when it slipped and fell on her lower left leg. The swelling and “unbearable” pain resulted in admission to AHS and follow-up treatment with Tari for her wound.
“At my age I have been to many hospitals, but I get the best care at Armadale Hospital,” said Marlene, a former nurse.
Patients in any EMHS hospital can be referred to the clinic at Armadale for wound check-ups and stoma advice.
Tari explained that a stoma is an artificially created opening in the abdominal wall that allows waste to exit your body, rather than going through the digestive system.
“It allows for the evacuation of the contents of the gastrointestinal tract or urine when normal function is no longer possible,” she explained.
There are many medical conditions that can result in needing a stoma including birth defects, cancer, trauma, inflammatory bowel disease or incontinence.
“Some people see their stoma as a welcome relief after many years of experiencing a reduced quality of life, as a result of their illness,” she said.
“Others may feel a sense of loss and look to their stoma as something they do not wish to have.
“This is a common and understandable reaction.
“Our role is to help patients cope with their stoma emotionally, as well as practically, over time.”
The nurse also provides advice on continence issues, bowel health and wound management, counselling before and after the procedure, and long-term education and review.
Staff looking to refer patients can do so via eReferrals. For inpatient wound or stoma reviews, please contact Tari on 0438 936 240 or extension 1147.
The clinic does not accept referrals from GPs at this stage, but Tari is hopeful the service can be expanded to include after the 12-month trial is over.
Last Updated:
22/07/2025