Determining of the problems of intestinal stoma patients' spouses

The purpose of this cross-sectional and descriptive study was to identify the contributing factors for problems that partners of intestinal stoma patients are experiencing. The study was performed on 80 stoma patients and their spouses between 2 November 2015 – 29 February 2016 at VKV Koç University Hospital Gastrointestinal Diseases Outpatient Clinics, Istanbul University Istanbul Faculty of Medicine Hospital, Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine Hospital where they have been operated. Data were collected by using a questionnaire developed by the investigator. Pearson's chi-square test, Fisher's Exact test, Student t-test and Mann-Whitney U test were used for data assessments. 62.5% of stoma patients were male, average age was 56.53 ±14.57; 36.3% were primary school graduates and 68.8% were not working after the operation. 60.0% of stoma patients were diagnosed with rectal cancer, 72.5% had open ileostomy, 60.0% had temporary stoma and 77.5% received their stoma care by a relative. Average age of spouses was 54.14±13.63 and 62.5% were women, with 30% high school graduates. Average marriage duration was 29.87±14.52 and 70.0% of spouses were non-working. Most common issues of partners are odor, stoma related issues, housework, anxiety, noisy flatulence, cutting the adaptor, hopelessness, and the stoma appearance. Average age of partners with issues in stoma care was statistically higher (p<0.05). Women had statistically more psychological issues than men (p<0.05). Non-working partners had statistically more financial issues (p<0.05). Average age of partners that separate their rooms/bed was statistically higher (p<0.05). In conclusion, partners of stoma patients experience physical, psychological and social issues. For these issues, ongoing care, consultancy and training should be provided. Key Words: Individuals with stoma, spouse, stoma care, problems, complications