Abstract
This paper discusses an analysis of ostomates' problems. Data was gathered through patients' consultations conducted between February 1987 and August 1993.
A total of 155 patients - 101 men and 54 women were interviewed and categorized according to stoma type. 160 stoma cases were classified as follows: 106 colostomies(66.2％),5 ileostomies (3.1％),36 cases of ileal conduit (22.5％),and others (8.2%). The three main reasons for the patients' visits to the clinic were:(1)leakage(44 patients),(2)advice regarding the appliance(42 patients),and (3)inquiries about skin care(27 patients).
As many as 56.8％ of the total patients had their stomas constructed within a one-year period;thus,most of them came for basic information on local management.
Those who had undergone surgery of over a 3-year period prior to consultation,wanted advice regarding delayed complications.
In conclusion,until ostomates can manage by themselves,many are in need of professional advice on stoma care after being discharged from hospital.
For this reason,it is important that health care providers give thorough guidance before and after patients are discharged.
