THE EXPERIENCES OF RECTAL CANCER SURVIVORS WITH STOMA IN WEST JAVA INDONESIA

Abstract

Introduction: Important specific experience of rectal cancer survivors is how they perceive the treatment of cancer, undergo treatment completely and get healed, and live productively after recovery. The aim of the study was to obtain the significant experience of rectal cancer survivors. Methods:  This  study  was   a   qualitative phenomenological method. Sample was taken based on the snowball technique to get three individual patients. Data was collected through in-depth interview, and then was analyzed with seven steps analysis of Colazzi. 

Results:  A  total  of  eight  major   themes  that describe various experiences of the participants of rectal cancer with stoma were found, namely:  difficulty  in  mobility/  social activity,  sense of  low  self-esteem,  pain,  extra expenses,   changes   of    patterns of sexual intercourse, dealing  with  loss,  restrictions  to worship, and the desire to share with other patients with permanent stoma. Discussion: This difficulty is drawn from the fear of lacking public facilities to support their condition,  such  as  the  place  to  change  or unload the stoma bag/appliance, fear that the bag  may produce bad odor and uncomfortable sound, purchase the  bag routinely, while most of them were already  unemployed,  worry  that the spouse  feel  disgusted  or   pity,   and   the uncertainty   if   the prayer and worship is acceptable to God. 

Conclusion:  life’s  meaning   of   being   rectal cancer   survivor helps increase the desire to share it with other patients in order to elevate their spirit amidst the same situation. Based on the stud, nurses should provide psychological support and clear  information so  that patients can meet their basic needs.