Health care workers become "ostomates" for a day

Background – The WOC nursing specialty was established to teach patients and help them cope with the psychosocial and quality of life challenges associated with having an ostomy.  Teaching is one aspect of healthcare work, but experiencing what is taught brings an added depth of understanding. The experience of wearing an ostomy pouch by multidisciplinary team members can enhance empathy and understanding for the ostomate and in turn, positively impact patient teaching and support.

Purpose – Relationship based care is the nursing practice model at this Magnet designated, Level 1 trauma, large academic medical center. To enhance relationship to patient, specifically the ostomy patient, pouch wearing opportunities were offered to nurses, physicians, care partners and medical and nursing students (Koloroutis, 2004).

Methods – Seventy-three workers participated in this experience. The participants were educated in general ostomy management and common psychosocial and sexual concerns.   They were asked to wear a pouch filled with water or chocolate pudding for 24 hours.  A pre and post questionnaire was developed and completed by 75 % of participants.  

Findings - The pre-questionnaire revealed that participants were moderately anxious but willing to wear a pouch. Major concerns included: leakage in public, physical discomfort, and interference in activities of daily living. Seventy-five % wore the pouch for 24 or more hours.  The post-questionnaire highlighted fear of leakage as #1 concern.  They reported moderate anxiety, self-consciousness, and feeling less desirable (pretty/handsome).  The ostomy pouch did not interfere with their ability to do things. The vast majority agreed that the experience facilitated increased empathy and understanding for ostomy patients.