SOCIAL AND FAMILY ADJUSTMENT OF OSTOMY PATIENTS: A QUALITATIVE CASE STUDY

Abstract

Objective: To understand the coping and adaptation of a colostomized person over a period of two years.

Methodology: Qualitative case study. The case of a patient with a colostomy due to rectal cancer is illustrated. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with the patient and family at two different times, during hospitalization and two years later. The four interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed according to the Taylor-Bogdan method.

Results: During hospitalization, coping strategies aimed at alleviating negative emotions by delegating stoma care to their family member prevail. Two years later, a greater concern for practical matters is observed, finally achieving autonomy. The aspects that have contributed to this adaptation and the changes caused by the ostomy in their life are discovered.