A comparison of the needs of hospice caregivers during and after the caregiving experience
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Date
1994
Department
Nursing
Program
Citation of Original Publication
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify Hospice
caregiver needs during and after the caregiving experience
and to determine if perceptions of needs change over time.
This study also examined certain characteristics as they
relate to perception of family needs. The study population
consisted of a convenience sample of 52 Delaware Hospice
caregivers. A descriptive research design was used for this
investigation. Data on caregiver needs was collected using
the Home Caregiver Needs Survey (HCNS). In addition
demographic information was obtained from the caregivers.
Mean values were computed from the responses of the
caregivers both during and after the experience. The top
six needs both during and after caregiving were included
within the categories of information needs and patient care
needs. The needs identified after caregiving more clearly
define the intensity of the caregiving experience.
Specific details of caregiving such as: RN or HHA help with
care; information on medication effects and schedules;
information on what symptoms to expect; and ways to combat
fatigue increased in importance. Retrospective caregiver
needs reflected a moving away from irrelevant patient care
issues and a focusing on those issues that most directly
related to patient comfort. They also reflected increased interaction with people other than the patient. A
significant difference was seen in several needs of male
caregivers and non-white caregivers.
Further investigation is needed to more clearly define
the changes in care needs throughout the caregiving
experience. Consistent assessment of the family needs as
well as evaluation of success in meeting those needs is
vital.