Physical Experiences of Family Caregivers of Patients admitted in Jos University Teaching Hospital, Plateau State Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The nature and extent of issues facing family caregivers of patients admitted in the hospital remain largely unknown especially in Nigeria where family caregivers are actively involved in the care of admitted patients in the ward.

Aim: This study sought to explore the physical experiences of family caregivers of patients admitted to Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), Nigeria.

Methods: An exploratory descriptive qualitative design was used for the study. Information on experiences of caregivers was elicited using a semi-structured interview guide. Data were analyzed using the content analysis approach.

Results: Findings of the study showed that participants carried out physical activities such as meeting patients’ selfcare needs and going on an errand, this had a negative impact on their physical health. Participants also faced instances such as sleep disturbances and improper feeding that had a negative impact on their health.

Conclusion: Family caregivers of patients admitted to JUTH experienced physical burden. It was recommended that interventions such as the employment of more nurses in the hospital will go a long way in reducing the burden of caring for family members in the hospital.

Keywords: Experiences; Physical Experience; Burdens; Family Caregiver