Insomnia Among Caregivers of Hospitalized Patients in Medical-Surgical Wards: A Cross-Sectional Study

Hospitalization is a stressful event associated with physical, psychological, and financial challenges not only for patients but also for their caregivers. The aim of the present study was to explore the levels of insomnia among family caregivers of hospitalized patients in internal medicine and surgical wards and the associated factors.

In the present cross-sectional study, 160 family caregivers of hospitalized patients in internal medicine and surgical wards were enrolled. Insomnia was assessed via the "Athens Insomnia Scale" (AIS). Also, a questionnaire about demographic characteristics and caregivers' perceptions was completed by the participants. Statistical significance was set at 0.05%.  Results: Among the 160 caregivers, 105 (65.6%) were women; 44 (27.4%) were over 60 years old; 124 (77.5%) were admitted to internal medicine wards; 47 (29.4%) had a hospitalization duration of four to six days, while 91 (56.9%) caregivers were the patients' spouses. With respect to insomnia, the AIS recorded a mean score of 7.4 (±4.6), within a score range of 0-24, while 102 (63.7%) caregivers had an AIS score ≥6. Insomnia was associated with female gender (p=0.001), occupation (p=0.030), hospitalization of patients in surgical wards (p=0.005), staying at hospital (p=0.011), reporting extensive changes in daily routine/lifestyle, extensive illness-related financial concerns, and high uncertainty about the future (p=0.002, p=0.003, and p=0.001, respectively), as well as those who shared the room with more than two patients (p=0.001) and self-reported anxiety due to caregiving (p=0.001).

Healthcare professionals should be trained to assess insomnia among caregivers of hospitalized patients. Understanding caregivers' perceptions related to their insomnia helps professionals tailor interventions, improve communication, and provide targeted education. Programs, policies, and support services work best when they are based on caregivers' real experiences and perceptions.