89 4 Supporting stoma patients’ self-efficacy with a mobile application - a focus group interview stud INTRODUCTION In the Netherlands, it has been estimated that annually, over 7000 patients undergo stoma surgery to treat various diseases.1 Getting a stoma is likely to impact one’s body image and daily functioning, which may lead to insecurities affecting mental health.2-4 As coping might be difficult, patients may face several psychosocial problems such as depression, stress, anxiety, less social participation and sexual problems.5 Moreover, the incidence of stomarelated morbidities varies between 20-80%.6,7 Due to its broad impact, the quality of life is significantly decreased.8 Patients with high self-efficacy have decreased risk of psychosocial problems and stoma-related morbidities. 9,10 Therefore, providing good preoperative and postoperative stoma care is essential for patients to adequately cope with a stoma and achieve a good quality of life.11 To date, patients have been moderately satisfied with their received care in the Netherlands.12 Several shortcomings in the information provided during the pre-operative workup routine, in postoperative care, and especially during care in unforeseen acute situations have been reported. Even if patients have years of experience with having a stoma, they still regularly browse the internet to search for stoma-related information. In an increasingly digitalising society, a mobile application (app) for use on mobile phones may be an easy-access route to health-related information for patients. An app with ondemand information may better fit patients’ individual needs and daily routines, and can improve patients’ self-management.13-15 Compared to providing information on paper or via internet, apps may offer additional functionalities such as easy access to information, personalisation of information, and the possibility of online peer-to-peer contact. Indeed, representatives of Dutch patients with a stoma feel that an app with these functions is of interest and possibly beneficial.12 However, it is not yet known how such an app should be developed to best support and accommodate patients. METHODS: Design A qualitative study using semi-structured focus group interviews was conducted between March and April 2020. The study was reported in accordance with the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR).16 This study aimed to gain a better understanding of the perceptions and experiences of patients and caregivers regarding stoma-related problems, and how an app should be designed aiming to help stoma patients to best cope with their stoma in real life setting.
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