Quality of Life of Family Caregivers of Patients Undergoing Dialysis: A Literature Review.

Abstract

Dialysis is a long-term treatment for chronic kidney failure. Family caregivers play a significant role in the care of patients undergoing dialysis. The quality of life (QoL) of family caregivers is related to the quality of care provided to patients undergoing dialysis. This recent literature review aimed to synthesize the QoL experienced by caregivers of family members undergoing dialysis. This literature review employed four online databases, including SCOPUS, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. The extracted articles were further screened on the basis of the PRISMA guidelines. In this review, articles were selected on the basis of the following eligibility criteria: double-blind peer-reviewed articles, articles written in English language and published between 1 January 2013 and January 2023. This review used thematic synthesis. Four analytical themes emerged, including physical capacity, social relations, psychological state, and environment. All of these themes correspond to the dimensions of QoL. The QoL of family caregivers of patients undergoing dialysis must be considered. A good QoL of these caregivers will improve the balance of life and further increase the ability and quality of care they provide for family members undergoing dialysis.