Which indication could suggest stoma retraction?

The indication that suggests stoma retraction is when the stoma is level with or below the surrounding skin. In this context, stoma retraction refers to the stoma being positioned lower than the skin, which can lead to complications related to the stoma output and the management of the surrounding skin integrity. A retracted stoma may be difficult to manage because it can be less visible, making it challenging to effectively clean and care for the area. It may also cause issues with pouch adherence and output leakage, which can result in skin irritation or breakdown.

In contrast, a stoma that is pink and moist typically indicates good blood flow and health without signs of retraction. A protruding stoma is generally considered normal or may be classified as a stoma that is hyperprolapsed, which is different from retraction. Signs of infection would suggest a need for further assessment but do not specifically indicate retraction either. Therefore, the assessment of the stoma's position relative to the surrounding skin is crucial in determining if retraction is present.