Ostomates’ QOL and Surgeon’s Responsibility After Ostomy Surgery: Part 1. Revision of the Questionnaire

Abstract

Aim: The ostomates’ QOL questionnaire needed to be revised completely for new ostomates, including urostomates, based on recent advances in surgical and care techniques.

Methods: The standard ostomates’ questionnaire, established in 1999, was extensively revised to enable appropriate investigation of all ostomates, including urostomates, based recent technical advances. The revised self-administered questionnaire was sent to ostomates by the Japan Ostomy Association and the responses were collected by post/mail. The data were analyzed using the EXCEL statistic series for reliability, consistency and factor analysis.

Results: Several urology-relevant questions were added to the old questionnaire, which was revised completely, including the 8 items of general health, 28 stoma items and 12 ostomates’ background items. Statistical analysis showed a Cronbach’s coefficient alpha of 0.9344, suggesting reliability and internal consistency of the test items.

Conclusions: The revised ostomates’ QOL questionnaire can be used for patients who have undergone any ostomy surgery. Statistical results of the questionnaire data might be utilized in clinical situations.