Anxiety, Self‐Efficacy, and Their Correlates Among Caregivers of Patients With Ostomy: A Cross‐Sectional Study in Southeastern Iran During 2023–2024

Background and Aims Caregivers of patients with ostomy often face physical and psychological challenges, including anxiety. Their ability to provide specialized care is closely linked to their sense of self‐efficacy. This study aimed to assess anxiety and self‐efficacy among caregivers of patients with ostomy. Methods This cross‐sectional study was conducted at a stoma clinic in Kerman province, Iran, from May 2, 2023 to July 20, 2024. Data were collected from 120 participants using a demographic questionnaire, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM‐A), and the Generalized Self‐Efficacy Scale (GSE‐17). Participants were over 18 years old, Persian‐speaking, willing to participate, had no hearing or speech impairments, and completed at least 90% of the questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 24, including descriptive statistics, correlation test, t‐test, ANOVA, and stepwise multiple linear regression to identify predictors of anxiety and self‐efficacy. Results The mean age of the 120 caregivers was 40.15 ± 11.75 years, with most being female (74.2%). The mean anxiety score was 21.96 ± 8.13, while the mean self‐efficacy score was 55.98 ± 6.38. Anxiety and self‐efficacy showed a significant negative correlation (r = –0.449, 95% CI –0.58 to –0.29, p < 0.001). Regression analysis revealed that caregiver education, age, sex, self‐efficacy, and patient residence predicted anxiety (adjusted R² = 42.1%, p < 0.001). In contrast, caregiver age, anxiety, and patient marital status, addiction history, and ostomy type predicted self‐efficacy (adjusted R² = 28.2%, p < 0.001). Conclusions Our study showed a correlation between anxiety and self‐efficacy among caregivers of patients with ostomy. We also found that certain sociodemographic factors predict levels of anxiety and self‐efficacy. Therefore, healthcare workers should assess caregivers' anxiety and self‐efficacy levels, foster a positive environment, and improve overall quality of life for both caregivers and patients.