Faculty Collaboration Database

Multidisciplinary management of altered body image in the patient with an ostomy. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs 1995 Sep;22(5):227-36

Date

09/01/1995

Pubmed ID

7550779

DOI

10.1097/00152192-199509000-00010

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-0029377532 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   16 Citations

Abstract

Many clinical studies have found patients with ostomies to be a group facing multiple adjustment demands. One of these demands is coping with a significant change in body image. At the Medical College of Wisconsin, a team approach has been initiated; the ET nurse, the psychologist, and the surgeon deal with body image concerns together. Problems requiring counseling have included difficulty with personal acceptance, personal and social body-image disruption, sexual concerns, reduced self-care skills, and the management of surgical complications. This article represents a study employing a methology of selected case presentations. Cases were chosen to outline the types of problems encountered and were selected from referrals made for psychologic intervention by the surgeon and ET nurse. The patients included four women and three men, ranging in age from 22 to 79 years. Data were compiled by examining the records of the surgeon, ET nurse, and psychologist. The primary needs revolved around personal or social acceptance of altered body image. By addressing these needs in a straightforward, time-limited manner, postsurgical counseling was delivered effectively for these patients. In conclusion, we have demonstrated the multidisciplinary approach to be successful in facilitating adaptation to an altered body image.

Author List

Walsh BA, Grunert BK, Telford GL, Otterson MF

Authors

Brad K. Grunert PhD Professor in the Plastic Surgery department at Medical College of Wisconsin
Mary F. Otterson MD Professor in the Surgery department at Medical College of Wisconsin

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Adult
Aged
Body Image
Female
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Models, Nursing
Ostomy
Patient Care Planning
Patient Care Team