Patient's adaptation to life after stoma

Introduction: It is estimated that in Poland about 4500 intestinal stomas are formed annually. The aim of this study was to assess patients’ quality of life after stoma formation.

Material and methods: The study included 50 patients under care of the Ostomy Outpatient Clinic. We used the original questionnaire, standardized Satisfaction with Life Scale, standardized Social Support Questionnaire and Kmiecik-Baran Standardized Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS).

Results: Most respondents during the hospital stay were acquainted with the stoma equipment, trained on the stoma care and hygiene and the principles of reimbursement for the stoma equipment. Patients’ most problems were caused by fear of contamination (30 people). Stoma had the greatest negative impact on the wearing style (28 people), love life (28 people) and changing eating habits (25 patients). Almost all respondents (28 people) accepted stoma with equanimity. The majority of respondents (31) did not practice sport or any form of recreation. Most respondents (22 patients) assessed their quality of life in a similar manner as before the stoma. Average results obtained in the SWLS scale for all patients showed that they were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with their lives. Overall, subjects highly evaluated social, informational, instrumental and emotional support. AIS analysis revealed that 32 percent of patients did not accept their disease. Women and urban residents were less satisfied with life. The patients’ level of education had an impact on the assessment of nursing support.

Conclusions: The main problem of stoma patients was fear of contamination, loss of control over gas or stool, and shame because of unpleasant odors. Stoma did not have a significant impact on professional behavior and attitude of people close to the patients towards patients themselves. Sex, place of residence and living conditions significantly affected the patient's quality of life.