Preparing the patient for self-care after total urinary resection

Introduction. Total urinary resection results with the necessity of creation an urostomy for the diversion of urine. Bricker ileal conduit is one
of the most common solution here. Preparing the patient for self-care and self-reliance is one of the most important elements of care
provided for patients after total urinary resection. It also should be followed by full social integration of these patients.
Aim of study. The objective of this study was to assess if patients who underwent Bricker ileal urinary diversion were well prepared for self-care.
Material and methods. The study group comprised 102 patients after total urinary resection. Survey questionnaire methodology was
applied and patients were asked to fill a questionnaire form developed by the authors. Patients also participated in interviews. Additionally,
medical records of all respondents were analysed.
Results. Almost half of the study group (47.1%) weren’t informed about the necessity of urinary diversion before their surgery. The site of the
stoma wasn’t determined before the surgery in more than 50% of respondents (65.7%). Similar number of patients had no opportunity to zalearn
about stoma equipment before the ileal conduit diversion. All respondents were informed how they should care of their urostomy.
A strong correlation was found between peri-operational care and patients’ level of knowledge and skills. Respondents who were taught
about stoma care before their surgery presented higher levels of knowledge about self-care.
Conclusions. Knowledge levels and practical skills regarding an ileal conduit diversion and stoma care were poor.
Nursing Topics 2013; 21 (1): 72–78