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New study to test telehealth, quality of life for ostomy patients
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Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing will examine whether telehealth can improve quality of life for ostomy patients after surgery, according to a press release.
Following ostomy, patients often experience complications, along with physical pain, uncertainty and embarrassment associated with the diagnosis, per the release. In this study, Tracie White, MSN, student at the school’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and colleagues will incorporate computer-based, video-sharing technologies to conduct visits with patients after surgery between hospital discharge and follow-up, according to the release.
“Patients typically have about a 3-week period before they come back to the clinic for a follow-up visit,” White said. “During those 3 weeks, problems with their ostomies may result in unscheduled visits to the clinic or emergency room. Being able to see these patients and address their concerns without making them drive back to the hospital increases access to care and provides support during this transition period.”
White plans to visit online with her patients at 2 days and one week after hospital discharge using video-conferencing software called RealPresence Desktop (Polycom) to determine the most common questions and problems patients with new ostomies have during this time, according to the release.
Researchers hope this will help patients and families improve quality of life in their new situation. White will ask patients about using a virtual platform as part of their discharge plan to better the process so it may ensure positive future impacts for patients, according to the press release. The virtual platform will allow her to reassure patients and discuss concerns face to face.
“Many times, patients struggle because they are embarrassed to call or don’t know whom to reach out to,” White said. “Meeting with them two days after they leave the hospital gives them time to get settled at home and figure out what issues are most important to them. Then, after a week, we can discuss strategies to cope with their new situation.” – by Savannah Demko
Disclosure: Healio Gastroenterology was unable to confirm any relevant financial disclosures at the time of publication.