Predischarge and postdischarge concerns of persons with an ostomy.

This study examined the concerns of persons with ostomies before and after discharge from the hospital and attempted to determine whether these concerns were affected by the reason for stoma construction, temporary versus permanent status of the stoma, or the person's sex. Participants (N = 67) responded to a 46-item questionnaire titled "Perceived Effect of an Ostomy." Eight of the 46 items were common concerns affecting patients before and after discharge. These were fear of stool leakage, odor, ability to participate in sports, necessity for further treatment, wearing a pouch, changing the pouch, change in body appearance, and participating in sexual love play and intercourse. The total concern scores did not differ significantly with reason for stoma construction or temporary versus permanent ostomy status. Women had significantly higher concern scores than did men. Interviewing patients before and after discharge regarding their concerns may help to focus ostomy teaching and counseling.