This topic is about the experiences and concerns of someone who has an ileostomy due to cancer and is now facing a stem cell transplant (SCT). They are particularly worried about the risk of infections and how their stoma might be affected during this process. They are looking for advice and shared experiences from others who have been through a similar situation.

Here are some insights and advice shared:

1. The person plans to use nystatin powder at every pouch change to help manage any potential infections. They anticipate that one of the main challenges will be needing to empty their pouch more frequently.

2. After the stem cell transplant, the first two weeks were particularly challenging. They experienced severe dehydration due to high ileostomy output caused by chemotherapy. This led to a brief discharge, a near fainting episode at home, and a readmission to the hospital for a week.

3. They also developed mucositis, which made it difficult to stay hydrated orally. However, once their blood counts improved, their hydration levels and stoma output began to stabilize, and their overall condition got better.

4. A former nurse from a hematology ward shared some insights:
- During the preparative phase for SCT, patients have almost no immune system, which increases the risk of infections.
- Common complications observed in SCT patients include constantly loose stools, lung fungal infections like aspergillus, and severe oral mucositis that makes swallowing painful and reduces food intake.
- Despite these challenges, transplant units are well-equipped to handle such issues and have effective protocols to help patients recover and regain their health.