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Level and Pattern of Psychological distress among Family Caregivers of Cancer Patients over the course of chemotherapy and radiation-therapy
Abstract
Methods: Descriptive, exploratory, longitudinal survey was done to assess the level of psychological distress (depression, stress and anxiety) among 111 conveniently selected FCGs of cancer patient in a medical college hospital of Punjab using socio-demographic data sheet and (DASS-21) Scale. Data were collected over 10 weeks duration at three point (day1, week-6th and week-10th of CT &/ RT) and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi- square, t-test and ANOVA.
Results: Majority of (74.7% -83.7%) family-caregivers had mild to moderate depression symptoms, 69.3 % -72.9% had mild to moderate anxiety symptoms and 43.2% - 46.8% had mild to severe stress symptoms over the course of therapy of their relative. Also mean scores of psychological distress symptoms among family caregivers remained stable over the course of their relatives’ therapy (p≥0.05).
Conclusion: Family-caregivers are "hidden patients" and vulnerable for psychological distress that may be persistent throughout the course of cancer patients’ therapy. This study recommends proactive assessment and referral of this at risk population by health care professional including cancer care nurses. Findings of study will provide basis for further in-depth studies.
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.37628/ijnspr.v4i2.824
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