Psychological coping and intervention needs in perioperative stroke caregiving: insights from bounded rationality...

The aim of this study is to examine the psychological coping mechanisms of family caregivers of patients with stroke in the context of the perioperative period. Within the theoretical framework of Bounded Rationality Theory, we sought to delineate emotional responses, identify support needs, and inform the development of stage-specific, targeted psychological interventions.

A qualitative study was conducted using a phenomenological approach. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 primary caregivers of patients with stroke undergoing perioperative management. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step phenomenological method to extract themes related to psychological coping and intervention expectations.

Five core themes emerged from the data: information-related anxiety, emotional fluctuation, irrational decision-making behaviors, expectations regarding support systems, and evolving needs across care stages. These themes reflected the influence of Bounded Rationality Theory on decision-making processes. Distinct variations in intervention needs were observed between the preoperative and postoperative periods, encompassing emotional support, informational assistance, and skill development.

Family caregivers of patients with stroke demonstrated stage-specific psychological coping patterns influenced by Bounded Rationality Theory during the perioperative period. Structured, multi-dimensional interventions tailored to the temporal and emotional needs of caregivers may improve caregiving confidence and effectiveness, thereby ensuring continuity and safety in perioperative stroke care.