Stoma surgery for colorectal cancer: a population-based study of patient concerns.
OBJECTIVE
The difficulties and concerns of colorectal cancer patients with an ostomy are not well documented. This study describes the difficulties experienced by colorectal cancer patients with a temporary or permanent ostomy over the 2-year period following their diagnosis. Patients' satisfaction with the information provided to them by their healthcare providers was also assessed.


METHODS
Colorectal cancer patients with an ostomy (N 5332) recruited through a cancer registry completed telephone interviews at approximately 5, 12, and 24 months following diagnosis.


RESULTS
Painful or irritated peristomal skin and odor and noise from the appliance were the most commonly reported stoma-related difficulties. The proportion of participants reporting these difficulties decreased over time. Provision of preoperative information was comprehensive, and satisfaction with preoperative information was high. However, 34% of patients said they were not seen by an ostomy nurse prior to surgery.


CONCLUSIONS
The ostomy nurse may be ideally placed to initiate, develop, and implement survivorship care plans for colorectal cancer patients.
Lynch
Brigid M
BM
Viertel Centre for Research in Cancer Control, The Cancer Council Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. BrigidLynch@cancerqld.org.au
Hawkes
Anna L
AL
Steginga
Suzanne K
SK
Leggett
Barbara
B
Aitken
Joanne F
JF
D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology / Q000601:surgery; D003125:Colostomy / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology; D004766:Enterostomy / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D009812:Odorants; D010347:Patient Care Planning