Predictors of Adjustment to Living with an Ostomy: Results of a Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: To describe predictors of adjustment to living with an ostomy among Italian adults with an enterostomy or a colostomy.

Methods: A multicenter, cross-sectional design was performed, sampling 403 patients with an ostomy in three different outpatient clinics of northern Italy between April 2018 and December 2020. Data were collected by stoma therapists in ambulatory settings using the Italian version of the Ostomy Adjustment Inventory-23 and patient medical records.

Results: Acceptance was lower among women, patients who underwent emergency surgery, those with a urostomy, and those with a body mass index of less than or equal to 25 kg/m2. Negative feelings were associated with higher body mass index, colostomies, shorter length of time of living with an ostomy, and emergency ostomy creation.

Conclusions: Being young and having a high level of education are protective against psychosocial problems and help promote acceptance and social engagement. The findings of this study help identify patients who are likely to be more vulnerable and need greater support through specific educational and motivational interventions.