Effects of transtheoretical model‐based intervention on the self‐management of patients with an ostomy: A randomised controlled trial

Aims and objectives To determine the effect of a transtheoretical model (TTM)‐based intervention on patients with an ostomy and provide patient‐centred, accessible assistance and dynamic education to improve patient self‐management. Background Proper self‐management may promote the rehabilitation of patients with an ostomy. TTM‐based interventions have resulted in positive health behavioural changes. Design Randomised controlled trial performed according to the CONSORT guidelines. Subject and setting The sample comprised 55 men and 37 women (24–77 years old, mean ± SD = 52.8 ± 11.13 years). The study settings included three tertiary hospitals in Changsha, Hunan, China. Methods The 92 patients, recruited from August 2012 to March 2013, were randomised into a control group and an intervention group. Randomisation was done by using a block randomisation list with a block size of 4. Self‐management behaviours were assessed at the baseline, 2 days before discharge and after 1, 3 and 6 months of follow‐up. The chi‐squared test, independent sample t test and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to analyse the data. Results Patients in the intervention group were more likely to be at the action and maintenance stages compared with those in the control group. We also observed significant improvements in the self‐management ability in the process of change, the decisional balance and self‐efficacy in the intervention group compared with those in the control group after four intervention sessions and up to 6 months of follow‐up. No serious intervention‐related adverse events were observed. Conclusions The TTM‐based intervention had positive effects on self‐management behaviours of patients with an ostomy. Relevance to clinical practice The TTM‐based intervention had positive effects on self‐management behaviours of patients with an ostomy and may provide a reference for health providers to develop behaviour promotion programmes to improve the self‐management of patients with an ostomy.