A male patient with a urinary stoma says, “I looked at it while you were out of

1 -- Adaptive coping mechanisms include learning as much as possible about the surgery and its effects, practicing procedures, setting realistic goals and rehearsing various alternative outcomes. Accepting the stoma as part of the self is vital to adapting to the changed body image and is indicated by a willingness to provide self-care. The patient may initially use defensive mechanisms such as denial, minimization, and dissociation from the immediate situation to reduce anxiety and maintain psychological integrity. Grief and anger may also be expressed by the patient with a new stoma, but the patient’s statement demonstrates a coping behavior.