Specific situation theory of the transition experience lived by people with intestinal ostomies and their families^*

Objective:  to develop a specific situational theory representative of the transition experience of people with intestinal ostomies and their families, based on Afaf Meleis’ Theory of Transitions.

Method:  theoretical study, guided by the theory-research-theory strategy and based on an integrative approach, which combines deductive and inductive strategies. In the deductive stage, the Theory of Transitions was listed to provide a conceptual structure and organize theoretical thinking. Inductive strategies involved conducting an integrative review, document analysis, and focus group development.

Results:  a specific situation theory was developed to describe and explain the transition experience of people with intestinal ostomies and their families, comprising seven concepts and 20 sub-concepts. The theoretical framework also includes relational statements, as well as a diagram representing its concepts and their interrelationships.

Conclusion:  the theory developed has the potential to guide and systematize nursing care for people with ostomies and their families, covering the different phases of the transition process.

Descriptors:
Ostomy; Family; Nursing Care; Nursing Theory; Enterostomal Therapy; Nursing Models

(1) SST is a significant contribution to nursing knowledge. (2) It involves individual aspects and the family and social implications of the transition. (3) It has the potential to guide and systematize care throughout the transition. (4) It can support and guide the stages of the Nursing Process. (5) It can be applied to different healthcare settings.