Quality of life, wellbeing and care needs of Irish ostomates.
Having a stoma can reduce a person's quality of life and cause distress. A survey of people in Ireland who have had a stoma for an average of 15 years found that, while they now have a similar quality of life to the general population, they have poorer mental health and a higher level of sexual dysfunction. Respondents want to talk about their experiences and may benefit from more opportunities to talk to others with a stoma or to stoma care nurses. While most patient information suggests that patients can return to their usual diet and their clothes, a majority of ostomates have to make changes in these areas; some dietary changes have implications for their health. Ostomates in Ireland experience continuing problems with leakages and peristomal skin. These issues show there is a need for routine, regular follow up of ostomates by stoma care nurses. Although most patients found follow up by a community stoma care nurse helpful, the provision of this type of service varies.
Stoma Care Nurse, Hollister Limited, Ireland.
Fiona
F
Davidson
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003020:Clothing; D003125:Colostomy / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology*; D003152:Community Health Nursing; D004032:Diet; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007081:Ileostomy / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D007494:Ireland; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010030:Ostomy / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology; D011788:Quality of Life; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult
Mental health; Patient information; Quality of life; Stoma; Stoma care nurse; Wellbeing