Cent Eur J Nurs Midw 2019, 10(4):1155-1166 | DOI: 10.15452/CEJNM.2019.10.0027

Perspectives of adult survivors of colorectal cancer with an ostomy on their needs: synthesis of qualitative research studies

Yulius Tiranda^1,*, Pulsuk Siripul², Bumpenchit Sangchart³, Cahyu Septiwi⁴

¹ Department of Adult Nursing, Nursing Study Program, STIKes Muhammadiyah Palembang, South Sumatera, Indonesia

² Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Nursing, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand

³ Department of Adult Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand

⁴ Department of Adult Nursing, Nursing Study Program, STIKes Muhammadiyah Gombong, Central Java, Indonesia

Aim: Colorectal cancer survivors must address the challenges of living with their condition, while their primary needs change over time. The extent to which the needs of survivors are fulfilled is one of the key indicators of success throughout the illness. This study aimed to explore and expand understanding of the needs of adult survivors of CRC with ostomy, according to their own views and experiences.

Design: A synthesis of qualitative research studies.

Methods: Four electronic databases were used: Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Proquest, and Science Direct, published 2000-2016, and using PRISMA guidelines as search strategies. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative research checklist was used to ensure the quality of the articles. A three-point system was used to estimate the average score for all articles.

Results: Initial codes were employed by coding the primary study line-by-line. The codes were then structured into eight descriptive themes, and, finally, three new analytical themes were established, including information needs, experiences of having stoma, and surviving for a better life.

Conclusion: Information related to the illness is pivotal for CRC survivors in dealing with their current and future conditions. In addition, support from those closest to them, family, and healthcare workers has a positive impact on the acceptance of the illness and the will to survive. Determining the subjective needs of adult CRC survivors with ostomies is crucial if they are to be helped to adapt successfully to conditions and to continue living normal lives.

Keywords: adult survivors, colorectal cancer, needs, qualitative synthesis, thematic synthesis

Received: June 18, 2019; Accepted: October 24, 2019; Published: September 30, 2019  Show citation