The reaction of an individual to the news that they will require a stoma is usually shock; discussion and counselling are required. Adaptation is more problematical if the patient is young, previously healthy and has had a short length of illness, has poor marital support, was an emergency admission, or does not have access to a specialist stoma care nurse.
Patients must be given a clear outline of the proposed surgery and care plan, preferably by the latter expert. Acceptance may be a slow process. It is important to address such issues as body image and sexuality. Joining a self-help group may be beneficial.
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