[Affecting factors of quality of life of colostomy patients].

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: This study was to identify the factors that affect the quality of life (QOL) and bring forward methods of improving the QOL of colostomy patients, so as to offer evidences for practical nurses.

METHODS

A descriptive, correlative design was employed in this study. From October, 2002 to February, 2004, 86 colostomy patients who discharged from Tumor Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University were recruited to complete a series of questionnaires, including EORTC QLQ-C30, Symptom Check List(SCL-90), Perceived Social Support Scale(PSSS). The SPSS11.0 was used for data analysis.

RESULTS

The QOL of colostomy patients was relatively low. The mean score of EORTC QLQ-C30 was 49.13+/-17.20. The score of QOL was negatively correlated with the score of SCL-90 and positively correlated with the score of social support. The score of SCL-90 was the most important factor that affected the QOL, followed by the income of the patients.

CONCLUSION

The major factors affecting the QOL were mental health status, financial status and social support of the patients. The results point out practical nurses should keep an eye on these factors.