Quality of Life in Patients with a Permanent Stoma after Rectal Cancer Surgery : A descriptive review

Abstract: Abstract Background: Currently, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in the world. After enterostomy, some people have difficulty dealing with physical,psychological, and social problems. Therefore, the quality of life of patients after enterostomy has been paid more and more attention by society.Aim: The aim of the review was to explore the quality of life in patients with a permanent stoma after rectal cancer surgery.Methods: We used two databases, Cinahl and PubMed, to search for articles. Quality of life after permanent enterostomy was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30, CR38 and COH-QOL, SF12V2 and SF36 scales.Results: A total of nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The result showed that enterostomy reduces the quality of life of patients undergoing the procedure. Stomarelated problems include sexual function, depression, unsatisfactory appearance, fatigue and many social problems such as role function, role physical, social function, cognitive function, future perspective and financial difficulties.Conclusions: The studies included in the review showed that the presence of permanent stoma has a negative effect on a person's quality of life. Some patients who undergo permanent ostomy surgery have physical, psychological and social problems. This resultenables nurses to understand the impact of a stoma on patients' lives and provides nurses with better nursing guidance from various aspects.