Nursing Outcomes, Health Indicators Identified Among Patients With an Intestinal Stoma

A new study sheds light on the variables associated with nursing outcomes among patients with a stoma.

“It provides the opportunity to plan achievable objectives with patients using a system of indicators that facilitate their assessment and monitoring,” the researchers wrote.

To determine nursing outcomes among individuals with an intestinal stoma, as well as sociodemographic and clinical variables, the researchers performed an observational, cross-sectional study of 102 participants at a general surgery unit in Granada, Spain. The researchers evaluated data on the presence of nursing outcomes between February 2017 and April 2017 using the Nursing Outcomes Classification.

Findings showed that a patient’s acceptance of the influence of an intestinal stoma on their physical, psychological, and social life helps them better adapt to the new changes, and nursing care plans are essential for patients in that adaptation.

Moreover, a quality continuity of care plan developed for those with an intestinal stoma should include indicators measuring their participation in making decisions related to their condition and their knowledge and self-care of the stoma.

“Continuity of care after discharge reduces the occurrence of complications and improves quality of life over time,” the researchers wrote.

The researchers concluded that “the physical, psychological, and social spheres of the individuals with an ostomy are clearly impaired. […] The scores on 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.”

Reference

Moya-Muñoz N, Armenteros-FernándezE, Bautista-MártirC, et al. Assessment of health indicators in individuals with intestinal stoma using the Nursing Outcomes Classification: a cross-sectional study. Front Surg. Published online May 20, 2022. doi:10.3389/fsurg.2022.870379