| Sumario: | Background Peristomal skin complications (PSCs) in the early post-operative period are commonly reported and considered largely preventable by many. Furthermore, they affect overall wellbeing and quality of life (QoL). As part of a study investigating the number, type and aetiology of PSCs experienced by a cohort of Western Australian ostomates, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to establish the contributing factors associated with PSCs. Method The primary literature search was conducted from January 2000 -- September 2021 and the secondary search was conducted from September 2021 -- June 2023. Papers published prior to 2000 were included if they were seminal works or there were no other recent publications on the topic. Results Internationally peristomal skin complications were reported to be 6--80% and commonly occurred during the early to late post-operative periods. The literature identified contributing factors related to the ostomate such as; obesity, geographical location and access to stomal therapy nurse (STN) follow-up and those related to the stoma, to be the primary causes of PSCs. Comprehensive assessment of PSC risk factors, pre and post-operative stoma care education, regular post-operative follow-up and appropriate selection of appliances and accessories were found to be the most effective prevention strategies. Discussion The aetiology of PSCs are multifactorial and all contributing factors need to be considered by stomal therapy nurses (STNs). The results were used to inform a risk assessment tool that can guide STNs to identify ostomates most at risk of PSCs. Such knowledge informs the implementation of prevention interventions which are anticipated to reduce the overall incidence of PSCs.
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