The Experience of Families Caring for Asthma Sufferers During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Indonesia: A Qualitative Research

Abstract

Familial support was essential to the care of asthma patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. It helps clients in making asthma care decisions. The purpose of this study was to explain the experience of families in providing asthma care and the effects of family care on the patient during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia. This qualitative study was conducted using a content analysis approach on three families in East Java Province, Indonesia. Data were collected from the 3 families, using semi-structured interviews between 2020 and 2021. The subjects were all families in which some members had asthma. Sampling was done using the purposeful technique with maximum variation. Immediately after each interview, the content was transcribed using the Word software. The interviews were conducted with one individual at a time in the family’s home. Data were analyzed using the conventional content analysis method with simultaneous data collection based on five steps. The data analysis showed three main themes: family burdens and disruption when asthma relapsed, using a mask, keeping up stamina, keeping the mind relaxed, and staying away from crowds as an effort to prevent asthma, and pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments carried out by families. The burden faced by the family when the disease recurs can be curbed through the family’s taking anticipatory measures that involve cooperation between family members. The family also plays a vital role in limiting the patient’s activities when the disease relapses.
 Keywords: Family, Experiences, Asthma, Qualitative research, Covid-19