Starting and maintaining a hospital-based ostomy support group.

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Psychology
• Patient Support

Background:

• Ostomy surgery significantly impacts a patient's body image and can initiate a grieving process.
• Patients undergoing ostomy surgery often experience distress and challenges in adapting to altered body image.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the establishment and maintenance of an ostomy support group within an acute care facility.
• To highlight the role of the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (WOC) nurse in facilitating ostomy support groups.
• To provide suggestions for the successful implementation of ostomy support groups.

Main Methods:

• Clinical experience and observation of patient progress within a hospital-based ostomy support group.
• Qualitative description of the support group's structure and function.
• Identification of key elements contributing to group success.

Main Results:

• Patients participating in ostomy support groups demonstrate accelerated progression through grief stages towards ostomy acceptance.
• Support groups foster an atmosphere of acceptance, enhance coping abilities, and promote mutual respect among ostomy patients.
• Interaction with peers who have similar experiences is crucial for faster adaptation.

Conclusions:

• Ostomy support groups, facilitated by WOC nurses, are effective in helping patients navigate the psychological challenges of ostomy surgery.
• Peer support and shared experiences are vital components in promoting positive adaptation and acceptance of an ostomy.
• Implementing and maintaining ostomy support groups is a valuable strategy for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.