Study findings suggest that persons with ostomies experience changes in their body image, along with a decrease in sexual desire. Respondents described avoiding sexual intercourse, and abstained from sleeping with their partners. Male respondents described erectile dysfunction, and female respondents reported pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia). Participants stated that they did not feel adequately informed about these problems and desired to receive more information and support from ostomy nurses regarding sexual issues. Based on these findings, we recommend that ostomy nurses provide more counseling concerning sexual function and challenges following ostomy surgery.

There is a mutual interaction between health and the workplace. Health affects the capacity to work and working conditions affect a worker's health. Operating rooms (ORs) are stressful, complex settings in which there are ergonomic risk factors, such as lifting/moving heavy equipment. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) can arise due to unhealthy ergonomic conditions. Our study showed that nurses had been absent from work and/or retired early due to WRMSDs. Good ergonomic conditions in ORs increase nurses' occupational health and safety, their job satisfaction and performance. These factors contribute to patient care outcomes in a positive way.

No abstract

The Turkish version of the Body Image Scale is a valid and reliable tool for evaluating body image in Turkish ostomy patients.