Person-centred colostomy care through caring and emotional perspectives

Person-centred care (PCC) emphasises the overall identification of patients as individuals with emotional, social and psychological needs, especially in cases of profound changes in self-image, such as colostomy care. This article is a reflective case analysis of the care received by Mr Z. Mr Z is a retired professional who experienced emotional withdrawal after a permanent colostomy. This case analysis draws on the experience and insights gained during a clinical placement in the gastrointestinal surgery ward, highlighting the subtle but transformative role that emotional labour and relationship consistency can produce in person-centred care. Guided by three theoretical frameworks (the Fundamentals of Care Framework, the theory of Emotional Labour, and Bassot's Integrated Reflective Cycle), the authors critically examine how trust is established over time, how patients gradually re-engage in their care, and how nurses manage emotional boundaries while maintaining their presence. Even in an emotionally silent environment, person-centred care can be promoted through micro-adjustments to tone, timing and non-verbal communication. This reflective analysis emphasises the significance of emotional labour, which is usually not recognised in clinical care, and demonstrates how it can help reshape patients' autonomy and dignity.