[Factors which determine the psychological adjustment to permanent colostomies. An empirical study in Santiago, Chile].

Background: The acceptance of a colostomy by a patient requires a great amount of psychological resources and social support.

Aim: To identify factors that influence the postoperative adaptation to a colostomy.

Patients And Methods: Sixty patients subjected to a colostomy in 5 hospitals in Santiago were interviewed. The adaptation to the procedure was assessed using the Olsbrisch Ostomy Adjustment Scale. Three regression equations were elaborated to determine the main predictors associated to adaptation. Control variables such as sex, age and the lapse between the interview and the surgical procedure, were included in the model.

Results: The model used identified the simultaneous and combined effects of socioeconomic variables such as education and income on the adaptation to colostomy. A generalized detriment of the self image was detected. Patients valued the social support given by the family and friends. Multiple regression analysis determined that the main predictor of the patient's adaptation to colostomy was the level of self care developed.

Conclusions: The better adaptation to a colostomy could be achieved by training the patient for an adequate self care and providing him with psychological and social support.