Valuation of the quality of life of caregivers in gynecological cancer patients

摘要

The aim of this study was to determine the factors influencing the general quality of life and the quality-of-life subdimensions of family members caring for gynecological cancer patients. This descriptive study was conducted at a training and research hospital in Turkey. A total of 168 caregivers who were family members were included in the study sample. The data collection form and the Caregiver Qualityof- Life Index Cancer Scale were used to collect data. The mean age of family caregiverswas 42.6±12.30 and 81were female. The caregivers had the most problemwith copingwith the depressive symptoms and the nausea of the patient and with medication use for the patient. Information on care was requested by 35.7 , whereas 70 of this group felt they needed information on every subject regarding disease and its treatment. It is also found that although some factors did not influence the general quality of life of caregivers, they did have a negative effect on various areas such as burden, disruptiveness, positive adaptation, and financial concerns. Health care professions should educate patients and their caregivers who are distant relatives of patient or providing care for older patients especially on medical drug usage after discharge and management of symptoms such as nausea.