OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to develop a Web-based ostomy self-care education program and to evaluate its effects on ostomates' self-care knowledge and self-care behavior.

METHODS: Based on the needs assessment and literature review, a Web-based ostomy self-care education program was developed and modified incorporating feedbacks from nurse experts panel. The experimental group received the ostomy self-care using the Web-based program and the control group received the traditional education. The level of self-care knowledge and self-care behavior were measured and were compared between the experimental and the control groups.

RESULTS: The levels of self-care knowledge and self-care behavior in the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the control group.

CONCLUSION: This study implies that a Web-based education program for the ostomates can be used to improve ostomy self-care.