Community-based intervention to enhance the transition from hospital to home care for colorectal cancer patients post bowel resection and colostomy

This qualitative study explores the transition of colorectal cancer patients from hospital to home settings following colon resection and colostomy, while focusing on the experiences by healthcare providers. The paper employs semi-structured interviews involving five healthcare providers that comprises of physicians, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses, who were selected using purposive sampling. The grounded theory framework helps identify six key themes on the comprehensive needs for the colorectal cancer patients. These themes include inadequate education, psychological and emotional distress, obstacles in obtaining supplies, inadequate support and follow-up, multi-disciplinary approach and role of social workers, and integration of community-based interventions. The findings from the current paper support current evidence that many patients are discharged without adequate preparation for managing their colostomy, which causes significant mental issues include social isolation and high risk of readmission. The recovery process is further adversely impacted by financial and logistical barriers, which complicate access to essential supplies. The findings from this research emphasize the urgent need for enhanced pre-discharge education while also establishing a supportive post-discharge care framework. Based on these findings, the study recommends the inclusion of an integrated psychological support framework, ensuring consistent access to supplies, and establishing well-structured community-based follow-up plans. These measures will be critical in improving the patient outcomes by addressing the practical and emotional difficulties encountered, while also enabling the patients and their families feel confident in management of their colostomy.