Effectiveness of the Training Given According to Self‐Care Deficit Nursing Theory in the Prevention of Peristomal Skin Complications

Background/Objectives: Peristomal skin complications are common among individuals with a stoma and are associated with decreased quality of life, increased healthcare costs, social isolation, and various other challenges. However, these complications can often be prevented through appropriate care, patient education, counseling, and follow-up. This quasi-experimental study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of education based on Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory (SCDNT) in preventing peristomal skin complications. Methods: The study sample included 45 patients with newly formed stomas, divided into an experimental group (n=24) and a control group (n=21). Data were collected using the Patient Characteristics Form, Self-Care Agency Scale (SCAS), Stoma Quality of Life Scale (SQOL), Patient Outcomes Evaluation Form, and Patient Opinions Questionnaire. The experimental group received education and counseling structured according to the components of SCDNT. Patient care, education, and follow-up were carried out in alignment with this framework. Results: Among the participants, 73.3% had undergone stoma surgery due to cancer, and 53.3% had an ileostomy. Peristomal skin complications were observed in 54.2% of patients in the experimental group and 95.2% in the control group (p<0.05). The most frequently reported complications were irritant dermatitis (71.4%) and hyperplasia (22.7%). The average complication recovery time was significantly shorter in the experimental group (21 ± 12.95 days) compared to the control group (44.65 ± 23.56 days) (p<0.05). Conclusions: Education, counseling, and follow-up based on SCDNT were effective in reducing both the incidence and duration of peristomal skin complications and enhancing patient engagement in self-care.