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Informal carers' experiences and needs when supporting patients through chemotherapy: a mixed method study
E Ream1, V H Pedersen, C Oakley
1Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery, King's College London, London, UK.
European Journal of Cancer Care
|July 10, 2013
Summary
Informal carers supporting cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy often need more support, particularly with financial matters and recognition of their role. Addressing these needs is crucial for both patient and carer well-being.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychosocial Oncology
- Caregiver Support
Background:
- Informal carers provide vital emotional and practical support to patients undergoing chemotherapy.
- Inadequate support for these carers can lead to increased morbidity for both patients and carers.
- Understanding the specific needs of informal carers is essential for optimizing cancer care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the needs of informal carers supporting patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy.
- To identify areas where current support for informal carers is lacking.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach was employed.
- Questionnaires were distributed to informal carers of colorectal and lymphoma cancer patients.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a subsample of respondents and analyzed using Framework analysis.
Main Results:
- While information needs were largely met, one-third of carers felt unprepared for managing patient side-effects.
- Significant unmet needs were reported regarding financial support and personal carer needs.
- Carers found it difficult to be assertive in their role when unsupported and unrecognized by healthcare professionals.
Conclusions:
- Informal carers require enhanced support beyond just information, including financial assistance and recognition of their role.
- Future interventions should focus on systematically preparing carers and improving their involvement in patient care.
- Systematic preparation and improved involvement of informal carers may lead to better patient outcomes.
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