anesthetist–a medical doctor who specializes in giving medication to put people to sleep so surgery can be performed.

appliance–applied over the stoma to contain the stool and gas. Sometimes referred to as a pouching system.

bacteria–a one-celled organism some of which can cause infection. 

bowel–also called intestine. It is the part of the digestive tract that lies between the stomach and the anus. There are two parts, the small intestine and the large intestine (colon). Often these words are used interchangeably.

colon–large intestine may also be called the colon.

dehydration–condition resulting from excessive fluid loss.

colostomy–a surgically created opening into the colon, diverting stool from its normal route.

conduit–a channel or passageway. 

dehydration–condition resulting from excessive fluid loss.

divert–take a new route or direction. 

electrocardiogram (ECG)–a test to check the heart action. 

electrolyte–normal components of body fluids such as salt and potassium.

enzymes–substances in the mouth, stomach and small intestine that cause the breakdown of food. Enzymes can also irritate the skin if stool, which contains enzymes, remains on the skin. 

ileal conduit–an ileal conduit is a surgically created pathway from a piece of bowel to divert urine from its normal route.

ileostomy–a surgically created opening into the last portion of the small intestine called the ileum, diverting intestinal drainage from its normal route.