Challenges faced by Thai families when a loved one has a traumatic brain injury

The purpose of this study were to explore challenges and approaches for resolving challenges that Thai family members face when engaging with their loved one with severe traumatic brain injury in the critical care setting. This pilot study used an exploratory design. Nine family members were interviewed at a hospital in Thailand. Story-inquiry method guided data collection and analysis. Three challenges themes were identified: facing the uncertainty of their loved one's illness, dealing with personal sufferings, and changing everyday life patterns. Attending to their loved one and attending to self were two themes that family members used to manage challenges.