Experiences of informal caregivers of stroke survivors in Islamabad, Pakistan
Date of Award
2017
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)
Department
School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of informal caregivers of stroke survivors, in Islamabad, Pakistan. Methodology: This research study was guided by a qualitative exploratory descriptive design. The purposive sampling technique was used to recruit the participants and a total of ten participants were selected. The data was audio taped; it was collected through face to face interviews by using a semi-structured interview guide. Data analysis of the study was done manually by using the six steps of Creswell (2013). Results: Content analysis of the data revealed one major theme: the complexity of caregiving as a family obligation; and three categories and associated subcategories. The first category highlights the effects on physical, psychological, social, financial, and spiritual aspects of the informal caregivers. The second category comprises coping strategies, in terms of family and community support and the spiritual belief about the disease and the caregiver's role. The third category is about the needs of the informal caregivers for managing the stroke survivors at home. Conclusion: The analysis revealed that taking care of stroke survivors at home is a complex phenomenon for the informal caregivers. They experience several challenges, but the support that they received from the family and friends and the strong belief system helped them cope with the difficult circumstances. This study highlighted that the educational needs of the informal caregivers are very important for enhancing their quality of life.
Recommended Citation
Bano, S. (2017). Experiences of informal caregivers of stroke survivors in Islamabad, Pakistan (Unpublished doctoral thesis). Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.