Analysis of YouTube videos focusing on Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy care, and pouching system changes

Abstract

PURPOSE: This purpose of this study was to evaluate the content, reliability, and quality of selected videos posted on the YouTube video platform that describe fecal and urinary ostomy care, including pouching system changes. DESIGN: Structured search of videos combined with descriptive of their content, reliability, and quality via validated instruments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The topic of ostomy care was searched on the YouTube platform using relevant keywords from October to December 2023 without year limitation. In total, 101 videos were examined; 36 videos that met inclusion criteria were analyzed. Video content was assessed using the Assessment Tool for Stoma Care Skill: The Rubric approach. The reliability of videos was evaluated using the DISCERN Questionnaire, and video quality was assessed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS) instrument. RESULTS: A total of 11 (30.56%) videos focused on colostomy care, 7 (19.45%) on ileostomy care, 4 (11.10%) on urostomy care, and 14 (38.89%) on general ostomy care. Nearly half (n = 17, 47.2%) were intended for educational purposes. More than half (58.3%, n = 21) were narrated or presented by health care professionals. The mean scores for content evaluation via the Rubric instrument was 20.89 (SD 7.494). The mean score on the GQS instrument, used to evaluate quality, was 2.08 (SD 0.996) and the mean score on the DISCERN instrument, used to evaluate reliability, was 2.47 (SD 0.810). All scores were determined to be below average for content, reliability, and quality were below average. CONCLUSION: Videos intended to guide ostomy care and pouching system changes were found to be below average in content, quality, and reliability, potentially leading viewers to incorrect ostomy care practices. We recommend creation of videos using best practice guidelines to enhance their usefulness to persons living with an ostomy and their caregivers.