Ongoing ostomy self-care challenges of long-term rectal cancer survivors

The effects of a nurse-led discharge planning on the health outcomes of colorectal cancer patients with stomas: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Nursing care of colorectal cancer patients with stomas presents unique challenges, particularly during the transition from hospital to home. Early discharge programs can assist patients during this critical period. However, the effects of delivering a nurse-led discharge planning program remain under-studied.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the effects of a nurse-led discharge planning on the quality of discharge education, stoma self-efficacy, readiness for hospital discharge, stoma quality of life, incidence of stoma complications, unplanned readmission rate, and length of stays.

DESIGN

Assessor-blind parallel-arm randomized controlled trial with a repeated-measures design.

SETTING(S)

Participants were recruited from inpatients in the colorectal surgery unit of a university-affiliated hospital in Fujian, China.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 160 patients with colorectal cancer who received enterostomy surgery and were scheduled to be discharged to their homes.

METHOD

Participants were randomly allocated to the experimental and control groups. The former received nurse-led discharge planning in addition to the usual discharge education, while the control group received only the usual discharge education. The program included an assessment, health education, stoma care, stoma support, discharge review, discharge medication and checklist integration, discharge referral, and post-hospital follow-up. Baseline data were collected prior to the intervention (T0). Data on the quality of discharge teaching, readiness for hospital discharge, stoma self-efficacy, and stoma quality of life were measured on the day of discharge from the hospital (T1). Patients' stoma self-efficacy and quality of life were repeat-measured 30 (T2) and 90 days post-discharge (T3). Data on stoma complications (T1, T2, T3), length of stays (T1), and unplanned readmission (T2, T3) were collected from medical records.

RESULTS

Participants in the intervention group showed significant improvement in the quality of discharge teaching, readiness for hospital discharge, stoma self-efficacy, stoma quality of life, complications, and unplanned readmission, compared to the control group (p < 0.001). However, no statistically significant differences were observed in length of stays (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The program was effective for improving quality of discharge teaching, readiness for hospital discharge, stoma self-efficacy, and stoma quality of life, as well as for reducing complications and unplanned readmission among stoma patients. Integration of discharge planning into the usual process of care is recommended for clinical practice to facilitate a successful transition from hospital to home.

REGISTRATION

This study was registered at the Chinese clinical trial registry (ChiCTR2200058756) on April 16, 2022, and participant recruitment was initiated in May 2022.

Telehealth vs in-person education for enhancing self-care of ostomy patients (Self-Stoma): Protocol for a noninferiority, randomized, open-label, controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative patients with ostomies experience significant changes in their lives as a result of the device implantation. Self-care is important to improve their health outcomes. Telehealth provides an opportunity to expand access to self-care education.

AIM

This is a multicenter, non-inferiority randomized, open-label, controlled trial to evaluate the non-inferiority of a telehealth intervention to the standard in-person approach in improving self-care behaviors.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Three hundred and eighty-four patients aged ≥ 18 years, with a recently placed ostomy, no stomal/peristomal complications, and documented cognitive integrity will be randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either a telehealth intervention (four remote educational sessions) or a standard educational approach (four in-person sessions) delivered in outpatient settings. Every session (remote and in-person) will occur on Days 25, 32, 40, and 60 after discharge. Follow-ups will occur 1, 3, and 6 months after the last intervention session. Primary outcome is self-care maintenance measured using the Ostomy Self-care Index (OSCI). Secondary outcomes include self-care monitoring, self-care management, self-efficacy (OSCI), quality of life (Stoma specific quality of Life), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), adjustment (Ostomy Adjustment Inventory-23), stomal and peristomal complication rates, healthcare services utilization, mobility, and number of working days lost. Analyses will be performed per intention-to-treat and per protocol.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board of the main center (registration number: 119/22). Following completion of the trial, dissemination meetings will be held to share the results of the study with the participants and the health-care team. Adoption of telehealth technologies for ostomy patients can improve service organization by ensuring better integration and continuity of care. If the remote intervention produces comparable effects to the in-person intervention, it would be wise to make telehealth education an alternative treatment for addressing the educational needs of uncomplicated postoperative ostomy patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier number: NCT05796544).

Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of people with ostomy and the adaptive domains of Roy's theory: A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

The adaptation of people with ostomies may be associated with and affected by sociodemographic and clinical factors. The present study aimed to investigate the association between the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and the adaptation of people with an intestinal stoma.

METHOD

An analytical study, carried out through an interview with 200 patients with ostomy for five months. For that, it was applied to scale for the level of adaptation of ostomy patients to measure the physiological domains, self-concept, role function and interdependence and a questionnaire was used in which sociodemographic and clinical information. Descriptive and multivariate analyses were performed to test the study hypothesis.

RESULTS

The study pointed out statistically significant associations with male sex, age group below 60, low education level, Stoma time less than one year, below one minimum wage, temporary permanence criteria and presence of complications relation to low scores of adaptation.

CONCLUSIONS

The association of sociodemographic and clinical factors with the measured adaptive modes provides important information for the planning of nursing care and other care providers, since it directs actions to the aspects that give greater adaptive difficulty to people with stomas and which are the focus of care nursing to this clientele.

The barriers and facilitators to nursing care for patients with permanent colostomy in outpatient centers: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Ostomy care nurses are responsible for the management of patients with colostomy from the time of diagnosis. Currently, most ostomy care services are provided in outpatient ostomy care centers in order to reduce patients' hospital stay and reduce hospitalization-related costs. Many different factors can affect colostomy nursing care provision in these centers. Identification of these factors can facilitate quality care provision.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This descriptive qualitative study was conducted in 2020-2021 to explore the barriers and facilitators to nursing care for patients with permanent colostomy in Tehran and Qom ostomy centers. Participants were twelve nurses with ostomy care licenses, two adult patients with permanent colostomy for at least two years, and one family caregiver of a patient with permanent colostomy purposefully selected from outpatient ostomy care centers in Iran.

RESULT

Data were collected via fifteen in-depth semi-structured interviews and were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman's conventional content analysis. The barriers and facilitators to nursing care for patients with permanent colostomy in outpatient centers came into three main categories, namely specialized capabilities of colostomy care, care continuity, and caring status in the family.

CONCLUSION

These findings imply that not only nurses, but also patients, family caregivers, and referral systems can influence nursing care provision to permanent colostomy. Effective management of these factors can improve the quality of ostomy nursing care.

The Effect of Education Via Videoconferencing at Home on Individuals' Self-efficacy and Adaptation to Life with a Stoma: A Randomized Controlled Study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of education via videoconferencing at home on individuals' self-efficacy and adaptation to life with a stoma.

METHODS

A randomized controlled experimental study was conducted between November 2021 and July 2022 in an education and research hospital (face-to-face) and at the homes of individuals with a stoma (online). The study sample consisted of 60 individuals with a stoma: 30 in the experimental group and 30 in the control group. Study data were collected using the Individuals with Stoma Identification Form, Stoma Self-efficacy Scale (SSES), and Ostomy Adjustment Inventory-23 (OAI-23). After discharge, participants in the experimental group received educational booklets and education on stoma care in four video conference sessions. The authors analyzed the data using frequency and percentage distributions, χ2 analyses, independent-sample t tests, Wilcoxon tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference between the median pretest SSES and OAI-23 scores and the median posttest SSES and OAI-23 scores in the experimental group. At the end of the study, more individuals in the experimental group cared for their own stoma.

CONCLUSIONS

The education provided to individuals with a stoma significantly increased their self-efficacy and stoma adaptation scores. Hence, providing structured, continuous education on stoma care by nurses and using videoconferencing as an education method are recommended.

Survivorship in Early-Stage Rectal Cancer Patients Who Have Received Combined Modality Therapy

Survival rates in early-stage rectal cancer patients have increased over the past few decades. Societies such as the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), American Cancer Society (ACS), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) have proposed guidelines related to cancer survivorship care including formal recommendations to address the needs in early-stage rectal cancer survivors. These guidelines, in addition to new clinical research findings in survivorship will be reviewed, specifically looking at physical, psychosocial, and financial concerns in rectal cancer survivorship.

Importance of stoma care nurses in preparing patients for stoma surgery and adjustment to life with a stoma

BACKGROUND

Stoma surgery is a life-changing event and patients must subsequently make significant adjustments to their lives.

AIM

The study set out to understand the level of interaction between patients and stoma care nurses (SCNs) in relation to preparing patients for stoma surgery and in adjustment to life with a stoma.

METHODS

Retrospective, self-reported questionnaires for patients and SCNs.

FINDINGS

Most patients (98%) with planned stoma surgery had pre-operative consultations with health professionals in contrast to 36% of patients with unplanned surgery, who did not. One third of patients with unplanned surgery did not feel prepared for life with a stoma based on the information provided during their hospital stay. Two thirds of the nurses reported having sufficient time to prepare patients for stoma surgery and to life with a stoma.

CONCLUSION

SCNs are key in preparing patients for surgery and for life with a stoma. Variations in care were experienced by patients having planned versus unplanned surgeries.

Limitations on participation and global quality of life among CRC survivors with permanent stomas: moderated mediation analysis of psychological distress and family functioning

PURPOSE

Although a cancer diagnosis and stoma creation leave colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors with significant limitations on participation in life activities that would impair their global quality of life (QoL), the underlying psychological mechanisms are understudied. The aim of this cross-section study was to examine whether psychological distress mediates the association of limitations on participation in life activity with global QoL, and whether family functioning moderated the indirect effects of limitations on participation in life activities on global QoL through psychological distress.

METHODS

CRC survivors with permanent stomas (n = 282) completed questionnaires assessing socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, limitations on participation in life activities, psychological distress, family functioning, and global QoL. The mediation model and moderated mediation model were conducted using the PROCESS macro for SPSS.

RESULTS

Mediation analysis showed that the association of limitations on participation in life activities with global QoL was partially mediated by psychological distress (indirect effect = -0.087, 95% CI = -0.135 to -0.041). Moderated mediation analysis indicated that the indirect effects of limitations on participation in life activities on global QoL through psychological distress were significantly moderated by family functioning. Specifically, the indirect effects decreased were significant as family functioning levels increased.

CONCLUSION

CRC survivors with permanent stomas experienced poor global QoL. The moderated mediation model provides a better understanding of how limitations on participation in life activities, psychological distress, and family functioning work together to affect global QoL. Interventions aiming to improve QoL among CRC survivors with permanent stomas should consider targeting these aspects.

The effect of self-efficacy levels of patients with intestinal stoma on stoma adaptation

OBJECTION

This study was conducted to examine the effect of self-efficacy levels on stoma adaptation in patients with intestinal stoma.

METHODS

The study was planned as descriptive and analytical and was carried out in the university adult hospital general surgery stoma and wound care unit. Sixty-two patients with intestinal stoma who met the admission criteria were included in the study. Ethics committee approval, institutional permission and patient consent were obtained for the study. Data were collected from June to September 2021 using the Descriptive Feature Information Form, the Self Efficacy Scale for Individuals with Ostomy, and the Ostomy Adjustment Inventory (OAI-23). Data were analyzed by number, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Mann Whitney U, t test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation, and linear regression analysis tests.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients with intestinal stoma who participated in our study was 53.12 ± 12.30 years; 71% of them were women, 83.9% were married, and 32.2% were primary and secondary school graduates. The duration of stoma was 8.45 ± 4.69 months, 80.6% of them were opened due to cancer, and 54.8% of them had temporary colostomy. There was a weak and significant correlation between the duration of stoma of the patients and their self-efficacy and stoma adaptation, and as their self-efficacy levels increased, their stoma adaptation increased (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Self-efficacy is one of the important factors affecting patients' adaptation with the stoma. For this reason, it is recommended to plan trainings to support the self-efficacy levels of patients and to conduct interventional studies in this direction.

Short-term effect of colorectal cancer on income: analysis of an Italian cohort

INTRODUCTION

The ability to return to work after a cancer diagnosis is a key aspect of cancer survivorship and quality of life. Studies have reported a significant risk of income loss for cancer survivors; however, there is limited evidence of the Italian context.

METHODS

The Work Histories Italian Panel (WHIP)-Salute database was used to select a cohort of incident cases of colorectal cancer (CRC) among workers in the private sector, based on hospital discharges. A propensity score matching was used to find a balanced control group for several confounders. Ordinary least square and logistic regressions were used to estimate the effect of a CRC diagnosis on annual income and the probability of switching from a full-time contract to a part-time one considering 3 years after the diagnosis.

RESULTS

Overall, we identified 925 CRC incident cases from 2006 until 2012. Our results confirm a statistically significant reduction in survivors' income compared with controls. This reduction was greater in the first year and then tend to decrease, with an average income loss over 3 years of about €12 000. Stratified analyses by sex and position confirmed the overall trend while indicating a strong effect modification. Regarding the switching from full-time to part-time employment, the results were never significant.

CONCLUSION

Income loss does not seem to be related to an increase in part-time contracts, but rather to survivors' reduced work capacity following the invasive treatments. Further research is needed to investigate the complex dynamics behind this association.

Evaluating the Performance and Perception of a Stoma Bag Full-Circle Filter in People with a Colostomy or an Ileostomy-Two Randomized Crossover Trials

Stoma bag filter-related issues, such as ballooning (the bag filling with gas), remain highly prevalent among users. The full-circle filter was purposely designed to reduce ballooning through the inclusion of a unique, full-circle pre-filter. Two similar randomized crossover trials were conducted to compare the performance of the full-circle filter with a dual filter in adults with a colostomy (n = 20) or an ileostomy (n = 20). The frequency of ballooning was significantly lower with the full-circle filter versus the dual filter in participants with a colostomy (p < 0.0007) and in participants with an ileostomy (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were observed in the frequency of other issues (pancaking, odor problems, and ostomy solution discretion) between the filters. On average, participants with an ileostomy wore ostomy solutions with the full-circle filter for 3.3 h longer than ostomy solutions with the dual filter (p < 0.0001); wear-time in users with a colostomy was comparable between the filters. Considering the lack of published research on stoma bag filters and the high prevalence of filter-related issues, these data provide important information for health care practitioners who support people living with a stoma.

A Cost-Effectiveness Model to Determine Ostomy-Related Costs of Care and Health Outcomes Among People With an Ostomy in Canada Using a Ceramide-Infused Skin Barrier

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine whether a difference exists in the financial impact of the use of a 2-piece ceramide-infused skin barrier (CIB) versus standard of care barrier (SOC) in Ontario and Alberta using a cost-effectiveness model over a 1-year period for people with a fecal or urinary ostomy.

DESIGN

A cost-effectiveness model adapted from a previously published work.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING

The model was populated with data inputs from a hypothetical cohort of 1000 individuals in Ontario and 4000 in Alberta. Model results were assessed for robustness via the use of deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. The provinces of Ontario and Alberta were chosen because cost data were readily accessible. The combined population of these provinces accounts for 50% of Canada's population.

RESULTS

An expected cost savings of Can$443.13 (US $322.60) and Can$243.84 (US $177.52) per user for the hypothetical cohort of 1000 individuals in Ontario and 4000 in Alberta per year was obtained for those using a CIB versus a non-infused skin barrier in Ontario and Alberta, respectively. The incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER) of CIB to SOC per peristomal skin complication (PSC) avoided and per quality-adjusted life day (QALD) gained was approximately Can$2702 (US $1967)/PSC and Can$1266 (US $922)/QALD for Ontario and approximately Can$1487 (US $1083)/PSC and Can$697 (US $507)/QALD for Alberta. Analysis indicated CIBs remained cost-effective across all sensitivity analyses performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Finding suggest that a CIB is cost-effective when compared to a barrier not infused with ceramide when applied to persons with an ostomy and residing in the provinces of Alberta and Ontario.

Life with a stoma across five European countries-a cross-sectional study on long-term rectal cancer survivors

PURPOSE

Stoma-related problems are known to be important to patients and potentially affect everyday life. The prevalence of stoma-related problems in rectal cancer survivors remains undetermined. This study aimed to examine aspects of life with a long-term stoma, stoma management, and stoma-related problems and explore the impact of stoma-related problems on daily life.

METHODS

In total, 2262 patients from 5 European countries completed a multidimensional survey. Stoma-related problems were assessed using the Colostomy Impact score. Multivariable regression analysis, after adjusting for potential confounding factors, provided odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for stoma-related problems' association with restrictions in daily life.

RESULTS

The 2262 rectal cancer survivors completed the questionnaire at a median of 5.4 years (interquartile range 3.8-7.6) after stoma formation. In the total sample, leakage (58%) and troublesome odour (55%) were most prevalent followed by skin problems (27%) and pain (21%). Stoma-related problems were more prevalent in patients with parastomal bulging. A total of 431 (19%) reported feeling restricted in daily activities in life with a stoma. Leakage, odour, skin problems, stool consistency, and frequent appliance changes were significantly associated with restrictions in daily life. The highest risk of experiencing restrictions was seen for patients having odour (OR 2.74 [95% CI: 1.99-3.78]) more than once a week and skin problems (OR 1.77 [95% CI: 1.38-2.27]).

CONCLUSION

In this large cohort with rectal cancer, stoma-related problems were highly prevalent and impacted daily life. Supportive care strategies should entail outreach to patients with a long-term stoma.

FOOD CONSUMPTION OF MACRONUTRIENTS AND NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF PEOPLE WITH OSTOMY

Objective: To evaluate the food intake of macronutrients and nutritional status of people with ostomy in the Amazonian context. Method: Quantitative cross-sectional study carried out in the specialized reference unit for people with ostomy, in the period from January to March 2020. The sample consisted of 77 people with ostomies, aged 21 to 88 years old, of both genders. We used sociodemographic information, clinical and behavioral aspects, anthropometric measurements and 24-hour recall. Statistical analysis was performed using BioEstat 5.0 and EpiInfo 3.5.1 software. Results: Most were male, aged between 35 and 50 years old. The most frequent types of ostomy were: colostomy (69%) and ileostomy (21%), with a temporary nature (43%), with neoplastic etiology in both sexes (60%). As for the nutritional status, most presented eutrophy according to the body mass index, but waist circumference showed increased metabolic risk in females, and the triceps skinfold thickness indicated excess adiposity in males (<0.0001). Regarding food consumption, there was inadequacy of energy and macronutrients. Conclusion: Eating habits in the Amazonian context may be related to inadequate food consumption and changes in nutritional status.

CONSUMO ALIMENTAR DE MACRONUTRIENTES E ESTADO NUTRICIONAL DE PESSOAS COM ESTOMIA

Objetivo:Avaliar o consumo alimentar de macronutrientes e o estado nutricional de pessoas com estomia no contexto amazônico. Método: Estudo transversal quantitativo realizado na unidade de referência especializada às pessoas com estomia, no período de janeiro a março de 2020. A amostra foi constituída de 77 pessoas com estomias, com idade de 21 a 88 anos, de ambos os sexos. Foram utilizados informações sociodemográficas, aspectos clínicos e comportamentais, medidas antropométricas e recordatório 24 h. A análise estatística foi realizada por meio dos softwares BioEstat 5.0 e EpiInfo 3.5.1. Resultados: A maioria era do sexo masculino, com faixa etária entre 35 e 50 anos. Os tipos mais frequentes de estomia foram: colostomia (69%) e ileostomia (21%), com caráter temporário (43%), tendo em ambos os sexos a etiologia neoplásica (60%). Quanto ao estado nutricional, a maioria apresentou eutrofia segundo o índice de massa corporal, no entanto a circunferência da cintura demonstrou risco metabólico aumentado no sexo feminino, e a prega cutânea tricipital indicou obesidade no sexo masculino e eutrofia no sexo feminino (<0,0001). Com relação ao consumo alimentar, observou-se inadequação de energia e de macronutrientes. Conclusão: Os hábitos alimentares no contexto amazônico podem estar relacionados ao consumo alimentar inadequado e às alterações no estado nutricional.

The Progress of Social Isolation in Patients with Enterostomy during Discharge Transition Period

In terms of social and psychological health of enterostomy patients during hospitalization and discharge transition period, the degree of social isolation in patients during discharge transition period is higher than that during hospitalization period, which is usually manifested by poor self-perception of body image changes. Self-esteem (shame) frustration, severe negative emotions, low psychosocial adjustment, and other factors are closely related to postoperative complications, coping self-efficacy, social support level, family living conditions, and other influencing factors. This is an important reason why patients are difficult to adapt to ostomy life and low quality of life. At present, it is believed that the social isolation related evaluation scale can be used to understand the status quo of patients with social isolation and provide nursing guidance, so as to better cope with the adverse medical outcomes caused by social isolation.

Assessment of Health Indicators in Individuals with Intestinal Stoma using the Nursing Outcomes Classification: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim

To determine nursing outcomes in individuals with intestinal stoma and the relationships between them and sociodemographic and clinical variables.

Design

Cross-sectional study performed with 102 subjects at the General Surgery Unit of a first-level hospital.

Methods

Data on the presence of nursing outcomes were collected using the Nursing Outcomes Classification. Data on sociodemographic and clinical variables were also collected. Univariate and bivariate data analyses were performed.

Results

Outcomes related to participation in making health decisions and knowledge of ostomy care were assessed across the study sample. Period of care (post-operative and follow-up) was the most common significant variable (p < 0.05) among the outcomes. The outcome scores ranged from 2 to 3, indicating a moderate level of impairment in the physical, psychological, and social spheres of these patients. The scores in the indicators on Participation in making health decisions and Knowledge of stoma care improved in the period of continuity of care compared to the postoperative period, being this difference statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The care plan for individuals with intestinal stoma needs to include indicators measuring patient participation in making decisions related to their condition, as well as indicators related to their knowledge and self-care of their stoma. Relevance to clinical practice: This study aims to determine the nursing outcomes in individuals with intestinal stoma and the relationships between them and sociodemographic and clinical variables. It provides the opportunity to plan achievable objectives with patients using a system of indicators that facilitate their assessment and monitoring.

Autocuidado de pessoas com estomias intestinais

Objetivo: compreender as dificuldades enfrentadas pelas pessoas com estomias intestinais a partir das vivências de autocuidado. Método: trata-se de estudo descritivo, qualitativo, realizado com 30 pessoas com estomias intestinais, em um Centro Especializado em Reabilitação no Rio Grande do Norte, de abril a junho de 2017. A entrevista semiestruturada foi gravada, transcrita e os dados coletados foram analisados seguindo os pressupostos da análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Resultados: a partir das vivências de autocuidado mencionadas pelos participantes, emergiram as dificuldades agrupadas nas categorias: higiene e manuseio do equipamento coletor; necessidades de cuidado com a pele periestomal; equipamento coletor e os episódios de vazamento; convívio social após a estomia; dificuldades e potencialidades da assistência de Enfermagem. As pessoas com estomias apresentaram dificuldades relacionadas à limpeza do estoma, recorte do equipamento coletor, aparecimento de complicações periestomiais, vazamentos de efluentes, afastamento de atividades sociais e informações insuficientes sobre o autocuidado. Considerações Finais: diante das dificuldades encontradas, torna-se necessário refletir sobre as mudanças nas práticas assistenciais para desenvolver o autocuidado da população com estomias, as quais podem se beneficiar do uso de tecnologias educativas instituídas desde o período pré-operatório. Este estudo contribui para a compreensão das experiências de autocuidado vivenciadas por essa população a serem abordadas pela enfermagem na promoção da educação em saúde. Além disso, espera-se que o estudo subsidie pesquisas com novas estratégias para fortalecer a assistência a esse público e o avanço da ciência de Enfermagem.

Factors predictive of optimal peristomal skin status in patients with an ostomy: a secondary analysis

Peristomal skin problems are common in ostomy patients and are connected to decreased quality of life and patient independence, as well as increased treatment costs. This study analysed the factors related to peristomal skin changes in order to better define the clinical profile of patients with optimal peristomal skin status. Secondary analysis of data from a nationwide, cross-sectional, retrospective, multicentre study performed in Spain (Uses and Attitudes in Ostomy) (Bueno Cruz et al, 2021) evaluated clinical data, including demographics, preoperative stoma site marking, type of ostomy, device used, frequency of leakage and scores from the Ostomy Skin Tool (OST) and quality of life (QoL) questionnaires. Risk factors for peristomal skin changes were analysed using multivariate analysis, and a predictive nomogram to anticipate optimal peristomal skin status (defined here as discolouration (D), erosion (E), and tissue overgrowth (T) (DET) score of 0) was developed. Some 871 patients with an ostomy using different commercial devices in Spain were evaluated. Multivariate analysis to predict optimal peristomal skin status revealed leakage frequency, patient age, type of ostomy, preoperative siting and type of baseplate used were independent predictors of peristomal skin status. Optimal peristomal skin care should be a treatment goal for nurse specialists in stomal therapy, and its individual influencing variables should be taken into account by nurses specialising in ostomy care.

Cancer survivors' greatest challenges of living with an ostomy: findings from the Ostomy Self-Management Telehealth (OSMT) randomized trial

OBJECTIVES

An ostomy results in lifelong quality of life changes for a cancer survivor. We describe the greatest challenges reported from a randomized trial of cancer survivors with stomas (ostomies).

METHODS

Cancer survivors with ostomies participating in a multi-site randomized prospective trial of an Ostomy Self-Management Telehealth (OSMT) program versus usual care (UC) were surveyed at six months post accrual. An open-ended question requested greatest challenges after ostomy surgery. Quantitative descriptive and qualitative analyses were used to examine greatest challenges reported.

RESULTS

A total of 118 trial participants identified greatest challenges with 55 in the OSMT and 63 in the UC. Six conceptual domains were used to code comments-physical, psychological, social, and spiritual quality of life; ostomy-specific issues, and healthcare issues. The OSMT contributed 187 comments, and UC contributed 235 comments. Ostomy specific issues and social well-being had the most comments overall with UC contributing more comments in all domains except physical well-being. Word Clouds revealed post-operative and treatment-related issues and going out in public as the most common challenges in both groups. Word Clouds compared types of ostomies revealing bowel function challenges (colostomy group), difficulties going out in public (ileostomy group), and positive support (urostomy group).

CONCLUSIONS

Fewer challenges submitted by the OSMT group provide the beginning evidence of the OSMT program impact. Dominant challenges across both groups were social well-being and ostomy care. Challenges varied by type of ostomy. Findings support long-term care and support for all cancer survivors with ostomies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02974634.

Factors associated to quality of life in people with intestinal stomas

OBJECTIVE

To assess the quality of life of people with intestinal stoma and its association with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

METHOD

Cross-sectional and analytical study conducted with people with intestinal stoma. An instrument was used for sociodemographic and clinical characterization: COH-QOL-OQ, validated in Brazil.

RESULTS

The sample included 152 people with stomas. There were significant differences among all dimensions (p-value < 0.01) of quality of life. The dimension spiritual well-being had the highest mean, with 6.69 (±1.56), followed by the psychological well-being dimension, 5.00 (±1.94), social well-being, 4.63 (±1.83), and physical well-being, 4.54 (±1.77). Marital status, religion, type of stoma, and permanence had statistically significant associations with dimensions of quality of life (p-value < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The assessment of quality of life in people with intestinal stoma presented lower scores in the physical, social, and psychological dimensions. There was an association between better quality of life scores and people with definitive ileostomy, in a domestic partnership and practicing other religions.

The association of bowel function, participation in life activities, and quality of life in rectal cancer survivors

PURPOSE

To evaluate whether limited participation in life activities is associated with quality of life (QOL) in rectal cancer survivors, and if so, whether this association is independent of bowel function difficulties.

METHODS

We surveyed rectal cancer survivors from four healthcare systems about their QOL, bowel function, and participation in life activities. Additional demographic and clinical variables were extracted from the electronic health record. We examined independent associations between bowel function, participation in life activities, and QOL, controlling for potential confounders. We also identified factors, including ostomy status, that correlate with participation in life activities.

RESULTS

Of the 527 respondents, 52% were male, 80% were non-Hispanic white, and the mean age was 63. In fully adjusted models for all rectal cancer survivors, participation in life activities was positively associated with QOL, while bowel function was not. Bowel function retained an independent association with QOL for those who previously had an ostomy and were therefore more likely to have a low rectal anastomosis. Lower participation in life activities was correlated with lower self-reported physical and cognitive function, younger age, financial difficulty, and being non-Hispanic white.

CONCLUSIONS

Rectal cancer survivors' participation in life activities was strongly associated with QOL, even when controlling for numerous confounders, including bowel function. Identifying ways to improve participation in life activities may be critical to developing rehabilitative and other supportive interventions that optimize QOL among rectal cancer survivors.

Caregiver contribution to self-care and its associated variables among caregivers of ostomy patients: Results of a cross-sectional study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To describe caregiver contribution (CC) to ostomy self-care and identify its associated variables among caregivers of ostomy patients.

BACKGROUND

Self-care is essential for ostomy patients, but it can be difficult to perform. In these cases, caregivers play a key role in promoting self-care behaviours. So far, the CC to ostomy self-care has not been investigated thoroughly.

DESIGN

This is a cross-sectional and multicentre study conducted at seven outpatient clinics of two Italian regions.

METHODS

We recruited 252 caregivers between February 2017-May 2018. The Caregiver Contribution to Ostomy Self-Care Index (CC-OSCI) was used to measure CC to ostomy self-care. Three multivariable linear regression models were fitted to identify variables associated with CC dimensions (maintenance, monitoring and management). The STROBE checklist was used to report the present study.

RESULTS

The sample (mean age = 58.73, SD = 13.98) was mostly female (80.60%), unemployed (58.70%) and resided with the patient (81.00%). Caregivers being employed and those declaring more hours of contribution per week were associated with a significantly lower contribution to self-care maintenance. Caregivers with lower levels of education and those residing with the patient were less likely to contribute to CC to self-care monitoring. Spousal caregivers and those with higher preparedness contributed significantly lower to CC to self-care management.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a variety of sociodemographic factors associated with CC to ostomy self-care.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Sociodemographic variables associated with CC to ostomy self-care can help clinicians develop more tailored educational interventions for caregivers who find their contribution challenging.

A Qualitative Analysis of Ostomy-Related Patient Education Videos on YouTube

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the content, reliability, and quality of the most viewed YouTube videos targeting patients with ostomies intending to learn about ostomy care (OC).

METHODS

Using the keywords "stoma care," "colostomy care," and "ileostomy care," researchers assessed the publicly visible English-language ostomy patient education videos available on YouTube. A total of 84 videos were independently analyzed by two physicians experienced in OC. Data on video characteristics, source, content, reliability, and quality were collected and recorded for each video separately.

RESULTS

Of the 84 videos analyzed, 49 were classified as useful (58.33%) and 35 as misleading (41.66%). There were statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of the time elapsed since upload (P < .017), reliability (P < .001), comprehensiveness (P < .001), Global Quality Scale scores (P < .001), source (P < .001), and lecturer types (P < .011). The reliability, comprehensiveness, and Global Quality Scale scores were statistically higher for videos uploaded by universities, professional healthcare communities, and nonprofit physicians (P < .001). However, the popularity of the OC videos posted on YouTube was not related to their reliability, comprehensiveness, or quality.

CONCLUSIONS

The open-access nature of the YouTube platform may impair patient education video quality and accuracy. YouTube may be an additional educational tool for OC, but clinicians need to be familiar with specific and reliable resources to guide and educate new patients with ostomies to achieve the best outcomes.

Rationale and Design of a Telehealth Self-Management, Shared Care Intervention for Post-treatment Survivors of Lung and Colorectal Cancer

Survivors of lung and colorectal cancer have high post-treatment needs; the majority are older and suffer from greater comorbidities and poor quality of life (QOL). They remain underrepresented in research, leading to significant disparities in post-treatment outcomes. Personalized post-treatment follow-up care and care coordination among healthcare teams is a priority for survivors of lung and colorectal cancer. However, there are few evidence-based interventions that address survivors' post-treatment needs beyond the use of a follow-up care plan. This paper describes the rationale and design of an evidence-informed telehealth intervention that integrates shared care coordination between oncology/primary care and self-management skills building to empower post-treatment survivors of lung and colorectal cancer. The intervention design was informed by (1) contemporary published evidence on cancer survivorship, (2) our previous research in lung and colorectal cancer survivorship, (3) the chronic care self-management model (CCM), and (4) shared post-treatment follow-up care between oncology and primary care. A two-arm, parallel randomized controlled trial will determine the efficacy of the telehealth intervention to improve cancer care delivery and survivor-specific outcomes. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04428905.

A literature review of post-treatment survivorship interventions for colorectal cancer survivors and/or their caregivers

OBJECTIVE

Colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors have reported a number of concerns and unmet needs after treatment completion. This paper aims to explore existing survivorship interventions after CRC treatment according to the American Cancer Society CRC Survivorship Care Guidelines, to identify study gaps, and provide valuable evidence directing future research.

METHODS

Five electronic databases, including CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Library databases from 2005 to October 2020, were systematically searched to identify English or Chinese literature on CRC post-treatment survivorship interventions. Manual searching through the articles' references lists was also conducted.

RESULTS

Thirty studies met the criteria, and focused on addressing issues in four CRC Survivorship Care Guidelines domains. Several issues for CRC surveillance programmes remain to be explored. Regarding the long-term physical and psychosocial effects of CRC treatment, we found mounting evidence for various interventions to solve ostomy issues and improve distress/depression/anxiety, strong evidence for exercise to improve fatigue, and limited evidence in addressing CRC patient sexual concerns. For health promotion, high-quality evidence was found for exercises to improve cardiopulmonary fitness, metabolism, tumour-related biomarkers, and short-term improvement in physical fitness and QOL. Emerging evidence was found for a survivorship care plan to improve patient perceptions of care coordination.

CONCLUSIONS

Further refinements based on the existing evidence, and the development of comprehensive CRC survivorship care comprising multiple essential survivorship components, are required. Furthermore, considering both survivor and caregiver cancer survivorship needs, future research may optimise the care delivered, and help survivors and their families live better with cancer.

Learning-by-doing: the importance of experiential knowledge sharing for meeting the information needs of people with colorectal cancer in Germany-a qualitative study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to understand how, when and why the topics of information and information needs arise when people diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) narrate their illness experiences.

METHODS

Guided by principles of grounded theory, a qualitative interview study was conducted that collected a wide variety of illness experiences with CRC in Germany using maximum variation sampling. Sampling criteria included place of residence, age at interview, age at diagnosis, treatment, disease course and sociodemographic factors such as varying family backgrounds and professions.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Men and women diagnosed with CRC in different parts of Germany were sought via physicians, social workers and psychologists in hospital settings, organisations offering psychosocial support for patients with cancer, self-help groups, rehabilitation centres, newspapers and personal contacts. The interviewees in the final sample (n=41) had been diagnosed with CRC between 4 weeks and 36 years prior to the interview.

RESULTS

Three inter-related categories of information needs emerged from the analysis: the need for non-medical information for daily life; the challenge of integrating the bodily changes that accompany CRC in everyday life; and sources of non-medical information concerning handling daily life. Learning to live with the bodily changes of CRC in everyday life was described as a long process of learning-by-doing. While sources for medical information were clear, finding practical information was often a challenge. The best source of such information was often seen to be other people living with the disease, who shared their experiential knowledge, as well as stoma and nutritional therapists.

CONCLUSION

Information needs are part of the process and struggle to normalise everyday life after a disruptive diagnosis and treatment. Providing access to practical knowledge and information from others with CRC experience may be an important resource for patient support.

Immediate postoperative experiences before discharge among patients with rectal cancer and a permanent colostomy: A qualitative study

PURPOSE

Patients with rectal cancer with a permanent colostomy often have issues in physical, psychological and social domains. Since discharge is an important transition period, the patient experience at that time is worthy of attention. The aim of this study was to explore the immediate postoperative experiences before discharge among patients with rectal cancer and a permanent colostomy in China.

METHODS

A qualitative design was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 patients newly living with colostomy in China, who were asked open-ended questions about their postoperative experience. The thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

Four themes and twelve sub-themes were identified from the interviews: (1) psychological reactions (stoma self-acceptance, negative emotion and social isolation), (2) daily life concern (daily life misunderstandings, sexual life compromise and work restriction), (3) stoma care consideration (strong stoma self-care willingness, decreased stoma self-care confidence and access to high-quality stoma care), and (4) support from others (enterostomal nurses, family members and stoma friends).

CONCLUSION

Colostomy patients experience various obstacles in physiological, psychological, and societal aspect. Nurses should provide effective discharge guidance to correct misunderstandings about the stoma, refer patients to psychological care, and promote transitional care.

Quality of life in Mexican colorectal cancer patients: analysis with sociodemographic, medical, and psychological variables

In this study, we evaluated the influence of sex, age, clinical stage, and colostomy/ileostomy variables on the quality of life of Mexican patients with colorectal cancer. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, 192 colorectal cancer patients were included in the study. Significant differences were observed in emotional functioning between patients with rectal cancer and those with colon cancer. Presence of colostomy/ileostomy was associated with significantly impaired social functioning. Body image was significantly different based on gender and diagnosis. Likewise, significant differences were observed with respect to symptoms of the general and specific quality of life modules for colorectal cancer: these included significant difference between male and female patients with respect to taste; significant difference between rectal and colon cancer with respect to presence of blood and mucous in stool, urinary incontinence, and buttock pain; and significant difference between patients with and without colostomy/ileostomy with respect to constipation, stool frequency, sore skin, and embarrassment. We observed significant correlation of dimensions of the quality of life with distress, post-traumatic stress, and optimism. Interventions for improving the quality of life of patients with colorectal cancer should be individualized based on the specific diagnosis and the presence/absence of colostomy/ileostomy.

Validation of educational material for the care of people with intestinal stoma

Objective:

to validate an educational booklet for people with intestinal stoma as a technological resource in the teaching of self-care.

Method:

a methodological research for the construction and validation of an educational booklet by nine expert judges and 25 people with stomas. The agreement index of at least 80% was considered to guarantee the validation of the material.

Results:

regarding the objectives of the booklet, all the judges evaluated the items as “adequate” or “totally adequate”, with a content validity index of 1.00. Regarding the structure and presentation of the booklet, the total index was 0.84. Regarding relevance, the total was 0.97 and the general index of the educational booklet was 0.89, confirming the validation with the judges. All items of the organization, writing style, appearance and motivation of the material were considered as validated by the target audience, reaching a total agreement index of 0.99.

Conclusion:

in the context of health education, the booklet was considered valid and suitable for the care of people with intestinal stoma, and can be used in teaching, research, extension and care for people with intestinal stoma.