Method: Descriptive study with qualitative approach, conducted in 2007 with 23 nurses, students of the Post-Graduation Course in Nursing of a private University of the State of São Paulo. A three-step-form was used: 1st, the socio-demographic profile; 2nd, the formative and professional aspects and 3rd, a guiding question: “What is your understanding of nursing assistance of patients with intestinal ostomy?” The data of the 1st and 2nd steps were compiled and presented in pictures and tables; the 3rd step was organized according to the content analysis technique, specifically the thematic analysis, using Sister Callista Roy's Conceptual Adaptation Model as a theoretical reference, in conformity with the nurses' adaptation modes; the following categories of behavior emerged: self-confrontation; confrontation with family, social and work aspects, and confrontation with previous attitudes and experiences.

Analysis: The reports were analyzed, classified and inserted in the processes of cognate mechanisms, and pointed out the difficulties that affect the nurses' adaptive answers. The adaptation status was determined, and thus goals emerged, which favored propositions on nursing intervention.

Final Considerations: The study allowed us to acknowledge the adaptive modes, according to the nurses' confrontation behaviors towards the assistance of patients with intestinal ostomy. It is expected that the intervention propositions be inserted in the formal and informal content of the educational process for both future professionals and nurses, so they can acquire the skills needed for this assistance.

Reference:

Tomey AM, Alligood MR. Modelos y teorias en enfermería. España: Harcourt Brace; 1999.

Silva AL, Shimizu HE. The meaning of the new way of life of individuals with permanent intestinal ostomy. Rev. Latino-am Enferm. 2006; 14(4): 523-27.