Caring for Survivors of Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation

Abstract

Approximately 54 million adults in the United States are involved in some form of family caregiving, with 15% of these individuals providing complex care in their homes. Therefore, it is essential to identify the nuances associated with complex community-based family caregiving. This study investigated family caregivers’ perceptions of caring for individuals who survived tracheostomy for prolonged mechanical ventilation. Using a quantitative approach, family caregivers (n = 15) reported that they were somewhat prepared for this experience. The findings suggested that family caregivers experience considerable physical and psychological effects throughout their caregiving careers. Despite physical and mental health challenges, the caregivers were able to derive personal gratification from complex care provision. The challenge before home care nurses is to prepare family members for their newly acquired caregiving roles, implement interventions that support their physical and mental well-being, and facilitate the engagement in health-promoting behaviors.