Perceptions and attitudes of ostomates towards support garments for prevention and treatment of parastomal hernia: A qualitative study

Background A number of conditions may necessitate the formation of an intestinal stoma. Parastomal hernia (PSH), the development of a hernia around the site of the stoma, is a common long-term stomal complication. Support garments, which are subsidised by the Australian government, are often recommended for the prevention of PSH; however, inconsistencies around support garment recommendation by clinicians, and usage by patients, remain. The present study explores the attitudes of people living with a stoma with regard to PSH and its prevention or treatment by way of support garment usage.

Methods An exploratory descriptive qualitative design using semi-structured interviews was undertaken with ten people living with a stoma. Thematic analysis was conducted on the resulting data.

Results Three overarching themes were identified: the complexity of stoma care and decision-making; the provision of education and support for ostomates; and the effect of health and wellbeing choices on support garment use.

Conclusions Caring for a stoma is complex; this may be exacerbated by a PSH. A focus on consistent education and prehabilitation is needed at all stages of stomal therapy, as well as patient-centred care that incorporates patients’ health beliefs and their comorbidities.