A Survey of Quality of Life Measures in Patients Who Have Transitioned from Using a Non-Moldable Skin Barrier to a Moldable Skin Barrier*

Purpose:

Quality of life measures are specifically defined in terms of satisfaction with everyday life as a whole¹. Ostomates can experience an increase in quality of life when using an improved ostomy device^.2

The purpose of this survey is to evaluate quality of life indicators for ostomates who have changed from using a non-moldable skin barrier to a moldable skin barrier*. 

Objective:

Evaluate clinical and quality of life outcomes for ostomates who have called a manufacturers’ customer call center**seeking alternatives to their current skin barrier. 

Methodology:

Studies show that 94% of ostomates change appliance type within the first 12 months after surgery³, 76% of ostomates experience peristomal skin irritation,  and 62% experience leakage².  When patients using a non-moldable skin barrier experiencing these types of issues called a manufacturer's customer call center, a thorough discussion with a WOCN helped to determine their needs, and samples of the moldable skin barrier were sent.    In 15 days, a WOCN places a follow-up call to assess the effectiveness of the moldable skin barrier.  During the call, questions based on the Stoma Quality of Life Scale (SQOL)⁴ are asked to determine wear time, ease of use, comfort, skin irritation, leakage, and sense of security.

Results:

Initial responses indicate that many patients who have switched to the moldable skin barriers based on assessment and recommendation of the customer call center WOCN, have experienced improvement in peristomal skin complications and an increased wear time.  Patients have also reported an enhanced sense of security and comfort with resuming their normal daily activities.

Conclusion:

Moldable skin barriers can help improve quality of life and make a positive impact for ostomates.  Improved quality of life has shown to make ostomates happier and more productive in society.