Telehealth Training for Ostomy Patients
Trial Summary
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Ostomy Self-Management Training?
Research shows that telehealth-based Ostomy Self-management Training (OSMT) can improve self-care outcomes for ostomy patients by providing critical knowledge and support. Additionally, virtual visits have been found to be feasible and satisfactory for patients, helping them manage their ostomy care effectively.12345
Is telehealth training for ostomy patients safe?
How does the Ostomy Self-Management Training treatment differ from other treatments for ostomy patients?
The Ostomy Self-Management Training (OSMT) is unique because it uses telehealth to provide systematic, evidence-based education and support for ostomy patients and their caregivers, which is not commonly available in traditional care. This approach focuses on improving self-management skills and quality of life through remote access to resources and guidance, unlike the usual hit-or-miss care and community referrals.12101112
What is the purpose of this trial?
Over one million individuals in the U.S. have ostomies. The American Cancer Society estimates 43,030 rectal cancer cases and 81,190 bladder cancer cases will be diagnosed in 2018.Of these, at least 30,000 will receive ostomies, and an additional unknown number due to gynecologic, other gastrointestinal, or other gastro-urinary tumors. The health-related quality of life impact is tremendous and greater than with many other cancer treatments. An ostomy is often a prolonged or lifelong disabling problem for cancer survivors. The adaptation period is quite variable. In our R01 study, 18% of participants took at least one year to be comfortable, or never felt comfortable, in managing their ostomy care. Importantly, many patients cannot attend in-person self-management programs or patient groups for a myriad of reasons, including distance to travel, lack of access to transportation, monetary outlays, competing demands (such as work), or comorbidities making travel difficult. In addition, a national shortage of OCNs means patients with an ostomy, whether newly placed or a long-term issue, receive little help. It is imperative to study interventions for rural survivors aimed to limit family financial burdens, improve ostomy outcomes, and improve survivors' well-being.
Research Team
Robert Krouse, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Pennsylvania
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adult cancer survivors who've had surgery requiring an ostomy, living in non-urban areas. They must be at least six weeks post-operation, able to complete English questionnaires and training sessions, and consent to the study. A caregiver's support is encouraged but not mandatory.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Ostomy Self-Management Training
Participants receive training on using pouches and equipment, skincare, ostomy complications, nutritional needs, and other self-management skills via telehealth
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the self-management training
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Ostomy Self-Management Training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Pennsylvania
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator