Family caregiver experience of caring COVID-19 patients admitted in COVID-19 hospital of a tertiary care hospital in Nepal

Abstract

Background Informal caregivers played a significant role in caring for COVID-19 patients during hospitalization in Nepal. This study aimed to understand the experiences of family caregivers attending to their relatives in a COVID-19 hospital in Nepal. Methods A descriptive phenomenological approach was adopted to understand the caregiver’s experience in supporting their relatives admitted to the COVID-19 hospital of the BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS). Thirteen caregivers of COVID-19 positive patients were purposively selected from April to June, 2022. Face-to-face interviews were conducted at a caregiver residential facility using the interview schedule developed by the department for the purpose of data collection after obtaining ethical clearance from the Institutional review committee of BPKIHS. Data were audio recorded and manually analyzed. Results Among the 13 caregivers, six were male and seven were female. The findings were categorized into five domains: challenges encountered, changes in physical and mental health, changes in roles and responsibilities, positive experiences, and strategies to ease caregiving tasks. Major challenges included financial burdens, communication problems, stigmatization, Insecurity, substandard accommodation, and visitor restrictions. Caregivers reported negative emotions, unmet physical health needs, and shifts in family and occupational roles. Despite these challenges, caregivers attempted to cope positively and acknowledged the efforts of healthcare personnel and other family members. Suggestions for improving caregiving included providing essential medical and basic services within the hospital, enhancing accommodation facilities, establishing proper communication channels, and allowing visitations. Conclusions Caregivers of COVID-19 patients face significant challenges during the caregiving process. Enhancing hospital services, promoting effective communication, fostering positive attitudes, and ensuring a safe environment can facilitate caregiving tasks.

Technologies' Potential And Difficulties In Assisting Family Caregivers Of Patients With Somatoform Diseases

“…Due to the severe and incapacitating nature of the symptoms, which can seriously affect every day functioning and quality of life, somatoform illnesses frequently present substantial obstacles for both patients and the people who care for them (Nielsen et al, 2024). In addition to navigating the healthcare system and addressing the practical and emotional obstacles associated with the disorder, family caregivers are responsible for handling the complex demands of their loved ones as the primary providers of care and support (Thapa et al, 2024). The responsibilities of being a family caregiver come with rewards (Brown et al, 2009;Cohen et al, 2002;Colantonio et al, 2001;Poulin et al, 2010;Wilson-Genderson et al, 2009) as well as serious drawbacks (Garlo et al, 2010; N. C. Keating et al, 2014; N. Keating & Eales, 2017;Pressler et al, 2009;Schulz & Sherwood, 2008;Sinha, 2013).…”