Caregiver Knowledge Research Articles

Socio-economic and Demographic Characteristics of Caregivers as a Determinant of Nutritional Status of Children Aged 6-59 Months in Kericho County, Kenya

Child growth and well-being are critically dependent on proper nutrition, particularly during the developmental phase between the ages of 6 and 59 months. Poor nutritional status is associated with an increased prevalence of mortality and morbidity in Kenya and globally. This study aimed to identify the factors influencing the nutritional status of children aged 6 months to 5 years in Kericho County, Kenya. The research employed a cross-sectional analytical design, targeting children attending outpatient child welfare clinics at Kericho County Referral Hospital and Kapkatet Sub-County Hospital. A total of 172 children were selected through systematic random sampling, and data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Key findings revealed that stunting affected 25% of the children, while wasting and underweight were prevalent in 23.8%. Dietary practices showed that only 39.2% of children aged 6 to 23 months met the minimum dietary diversity, and 39.2% received a minimum acceptable diet. Moreover, 45.3% of children experienced illness in the past month. Regression analysis identified several key predictors of malnutrition: Children of caregivers without formal education were more likely to be underweight (AOR = 0.70, p = 0.01). This study underscores the critical role of caregiver education in shaping child nutritional outcomes and highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve caregiver knowledge and practices.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary caregivers of gastric cancer patients regarding postoperative dietary management

BackgroundFamily caregivers of gastric cancer (GC) patients after gastrectomy have a strong demand for nutrition knowledge. This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of primary caregivers of GC patients regarding postoperative dietary management.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study, collecting data through questionnaire distribution. Demographic information of the respondents and KAP scores were assessed and analyzed.ResultsOf 508 included participants, majority were female (59.84%) urban residents (78.94%), aged 40–60 years (53.15%). Caretakers were primarily spouses of GC patient (50.39%) or parents (10.43%), only child (12.99%) or non-only child (24.21%). Notable percentage of poor knowledge and practice was found among participants (45.05% and 40.55%, respectively), while attitude was predominantly positive (99.41%). Correlation analysis revealed a weak positive correlation between knowledge and attitude scores (r = 0.150, P < 0.001) and negative link to practice scores (r=-0.228, P < 0.001); attitude scores were positively correlated with practice (r = 0.117, P = 0.008). Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that higher attitude scores were independently associated with higher practice scores (OR = 1.360; 95%CI, 1.223–1.513), P < 0.001), while higher knowledge scores (OR = 0.684; 95%CI, 0.575–0.815), P < 0.001), older age (OR = 0.951; 95%CI, 0.918–0.985), P = 0.005), duration of caregiving > 3 months (3–6 months (OR = 0.415; 95%CI, 0.193–0.894, P = 0.025); 6 months-1 year (OR = 0.269; 95%CI, 0.120–0.606), P = 0.002); >1 year (OR = 0.290; 95%CI, 0.120–0.705), P = 0.006), and follow-up location after patient’s surgery (OR = 0.072 (0.033–0.160), P < 0.001) were independently associated with lower practice scores.ConclusionsFamily caregivers of GC patients that participated in this study demonstrated moderate knowledge and practice, but positive attitude towards dietary management after gastrectomy.

Relatives' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Experiences Toward Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Systematic Review.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an effective treatment for patients with severe psychiatric disorders. Stigma and lack of knowledge surrounding ECT are major obstacles for both patients and their caregivers, who play an important role as shared decision-makers. Insight in caregivers' perspectives on ECT can support the consent process and patient compliance with ECT. We aimed to review perspectives on knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of caregivers of adult and adolescent patients who received ECT. We performed a computerized search (EMBASE, MEDLINE) for articles meeting the following inclusion criteria: (1) qualitative studies, quantitative studies, or quasi-experimental studies that (2) report on caregiver perspectives of patients who received ECT. We conducted our systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method. In total, 29 articles were included. Variation in knowledge about ECT was high among caregivers. Their attitudes were generally positive and most would advise for future ECT if necessary. Psychoeducational tools and ECT experience increased knowledge and attitudes in caregivers. In general, caregivers were satisfied with ECT but wanted more information on risks and side effects before ECT. Caregivers reported more positive attitudes toward and had better experiences with ECT compared with patients. Our systematic review demonstrated moderate knowledge, but overall positive attitudes and experiences on ECT in caregivers. Overall low methodological quality of included studies limits our conclusions. Future research should focus more on qualitative methods and cohort studies.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices status among caregivers of infants and toddlers towards hand, foot and mouth disease: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundHand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common infectious disease in children, and caregivers’ awareness of the disease is key to reducing its incidence. This study aims to investigate the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) levels of caregivers in Guangzhou regarding HFMD and to analyze the association of their demographic characteristics and family situations.MethodsThis cross-sectional study used face-to-face interviews with caregivers of infants and toddlers to assess their KAP status regarding HFMD through a structured questionnaire. The dependent variables were the scores for KAP, while independent variables included caregivers’ demographic characteristics, household size, etc. Univariate analysis was performed initially to identify potential predictors, and variables with a P-value ≤ 0.10 were included in the multivariate logistic regression model. Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to determine the strength of associations, with statistical significance set at P ≤ 0.05.ResultsA total of 1,094 survey responses were included. Among the primary caregivers, 655 (59.87%) were mothers, 411 (37.57%) had a college degree or higher, and 298 (27.24%) were homemakers or unemployed. The scores for knowledge, attitude, and behavior were 5.6 ± 1.5 (range 0–8), 18.88 ± 3.44 (range 6–30), and 31.91 ± 4.14 (range 8–40). Caregivers show a relatively low level of concern regarding isolation measures and the risk of recurrent infections. The caregivers identity, age, education level, household size, number of children in childcare, place of residence, and history of illness were significantly associated with KAP levels.ConclusionThe primary caregivers generally exhibit good levels of knowledge and practices regarding HFMD, but the level of attitude is relatively low. Health promotion activities should be strengthened for caregivers who are elderly or have lower education levels, as well as for families with fewer permanent residents or those living in sub-central urban areas.

Experimental Study on Video Discharge Instructions for Pediatric Fever in an Emergency Department.

Fever is a frequent cause of consultation in the pediatric emergency department (PED). Adequate discharge instructions are essential to guarantee good management at home and can reduce caregivers' anxiety and re-consultations. This study compares the improvement of caregivers' knowledge regarding fever between verbal discharge instructions and the addition of a video to verbal information. As a secondary outcome, we compared the rate of return visits. An experimental, prospective, single-center study was conducted in a tertiary hospital PED. Patients between 3months and 5years old with febrile syndrome were enrolled. Patients with comorbidities or SARS-COV2 infection were excluded. First, caregivers answered a written test concerning fever characteristics, management, and warning signs. Patients were assigned by simple randomization to a control group (standard verbal and written instructions) or to an intervention group (which additionally received video instructions). After discharge, investigators contacted caregivers by telephone. Caregivers were asked to answer the same questions as in the written test in addition to the need for subsequent visits (at the PED or any other healthcare facility) after discharge. Seventy-three patients were randomized to the intervention group and 77 to the control group (2 were lost during follow-up). There were no differences in the acquisition of caregiver's knowledge, with a median score improvement of 2 points in both groups (control group interquartile range (IQR) 1-2; intervention group IQR 1-3) (P =.389). In the intervention group, we observed a significant increase of correct answers in 4 out of 7 questions compared to 3 out of 7 questions in the control group. In the control group, 18.7% reconsulted compared to 10.9% in the intervention group (P =.188). Video instructions were not superior to verbal instructions at improving caregivers' knowledge of fever overall. However, more questions obtained a significant score increase in those that received video and verbal instructions. Our results suggest that the addition of video instructions could help reduce return visits.

The effect of caregivers’ health literacy levels on the quality of life and self-care of patients with heart failure

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to examine the effects of health literacy levels of caregivers on the self-care behaviors and quality of life of patients aged 65 years and older with heart failure. MethodsThe study was conducted in a university hospital in Erzincan, Türkiye between November 4, 2023, and February 12, 2024, on patients hospitalized in internal medicine, cardiology, and cardiovascular surgery wards and their caregivers (n = 206 pairs). ResultsAs a result of the multivariate regression analysis, it was determined that the access, appraisal, and application sub-dimensions of the health literacy of the caregivers positively affected the self-care behaviors and quality of life levels of the patients. ConclusionsThese results reveal the significant effect of the health literacy levels of the caregivers in the management process of heart failure disease. Healthcare providers -especially nurses- can improve patient outcomes of patients with heart failure by considering the health literacy level of their caregivers and using innovative educational methods that can improve the health knowledge and skills of caregivers.

Effectiveness of a Training Program for the Prevention of Pressure Ulcers on Caregivers of Elderly Patients.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of face-to-face education on pressure ulcer prevention and care provided to caregivers of patients with pressure ulcers in home healthcare services, specifically on the progression of the ulcers and their effects on the patients. This prospective, analytical intervention study assessed the training program implemented using the presentation teaching strategy for caregivers of patients with pressure ulcers, from the perspective of the patient and caregiver. The participants were 91 patients with pressure ulcers in the Home Health Care Unit and 91 caregivers. The data collection tool, consisted of questions regarding sociodemographic data prepared by researchers and questioning the knowledge of caregivers' knowledge about pressure ulcer. The Barthel Index, Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing, Braden Risk Assessment Scale, and Care Assessment Inventory provided by family members were used to assess the level of dependence in patients' daily living activities. The patients' average age was 77.21±13.26 years and 58.2% of them were women. The caregivers' average age was 53.32±11.45 years and 83.5% of them were women. A statistically significant increase was observed between knowledge scores before and after training (p<0.001). Indicating that the training positively affects the caregivers' level of knowledge. Factors such as a private room, caregiver support, caregiver competence, and caregiving difficulties were significantly related to changes in knowledge scores. Training programs for caregivers on pressure ulcer handling in home health care patients are effective and should be planned from a broader perspective to include caregivers within the family.

Effect of Tele-Palliative Care Education Program on Family Caregiver Knowledge and Practice among Geriatric Patients with Prostate Cancer

Effect of Tele-Palliative Care Education Program on Family Caregiver Knowledge and Practice among Geriatric Patients with Prostate Cancer

RTS, S malaria vaccination among children aged 24–59 months in the Sunyani Municipality, Ghana; 2023

BackgroundFollowing the successful pilot of RTS,S malaria vaccine, it has been recommended by the WHO for prevention of Plasmodium falciparum malaria in children living in endemic areas. Despite the proven benefits of the malaria vaccine, uptake especially of the fourth dose, remains relatively low. We assessed complete uptake of RTS,S malaria vaccine among children 24–59 months and associated factors in the Sunyani Municipality of Ghana. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 361 caregivers of children aged 24–59 months in the Sunyani Municipality, who had received at least one dose of RTS,S malaria vaccine. Structured questionnaires were administered to caregivers and relevant vaccination information was extracted from the maternal and child health record books. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with complete uptake of the vaccine at 95 % confidence interval (CI). ResultsApproximately 45 % (164/361) of the children had completed the RTS,S malaria vaccination schedule. Children aged 48–59 months (AOR:0.26, 95 %CI:0.09–0.76), those with caregivers who believed that children were being used for experiment (AOR:0.29, 95 %CI:0.16–0.54) or doubted the safety of the vaccine (AOR:0.27, 95 %CI:0.14–0.52) were less likely to complete the four doses. On the other hand, children of caregivers who reported vaccine shortages and travelled long distances to access immunization services (AOR:3.15, 95 %CI:1.17–8.47), and those with adequate knowledge on the malaria vaccine (AOR:1.89, 95 %CI:1.08–3.29) were more likely to complete the vaccination schedule. ConclusionLess than half of the children who started RTS,S malaria vaccination completed the full schedule. Age of child, caregiver knowledge and perception of the malaria vaccine, and access to immunization service were associated with complete uptake of the RTS,S malaria vaccine. Strengthening caregiver education and access to immunization services could improve uptake of the subsequent doses and coverage of the fourth dose.

Caregiver Awareness and Knowledge of Acute Kidney Injury in Hospitalized Children

This cross-sectional analyzes knowledge of acute kidney disease (AKI) diagnosis and associated risks among caregivers of hospitalized children.

Role Of Socioeconomics, Psychological State, and Attitude Toward Care Giving on Quality of Life of Dependent Patients’ Caregivers in the Northeast of Thailand

Background Caring for patients with dependency is a burden on primary caregivers, which impacts them economically, socially, and psychologically. The perception of caregiving and the psychological state associated with it further contribute to these effects. Objectives This cross-sectional analytical study aimed to study the socioeconomic and caregiving burden factors associated with the Quality of Life (QOL) of dependent patients’ caregivers in the Northeastern region of Thailand. Methodology A total of 1,335 dependent patients’ caregivers aged 18–59 years in the Northeastern Region of Thailand were selected by multistage random sampling to respond to a self-administered structured questionnaire. The Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) was performed to identify socioeconomic and caregiving burden factors associated with QOL while controlling the effects of covariates, presenting Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI). Results Among 1,335 dependent patients’ caregivers, more than half of them had poor QOL (58.05%; 95% CI:39.28 - 44.65). Factors associated with poor QOL were age 46-59 years (AOR=4.30; 95% CI: 2.84-6.51, p-value&lt;0.001), insufficient financial status with debt (AOR=5.89; 95% CI: 3.85-9.01, p-value&lt;0.001), low caregiving knowledge level (AOR=2.43; 95% CI: 1.63-3.64, p-value&lt;0.001), average to low attitude caregiving level (AOR=4.45; 95% CI: 3.30-5.99, p-value &lt;0.001), and having depression (AOR = 3.57; 95% CI: 1.93-6.59, p-value&lt;0.001). Conclusion The findings from this study have important implications for healthcare practice and policy—interventions aimed at improving the QOL of caregivers.

Public Knowledge and Attitude of Caregivers Regarding Leftover Medications for Children under 6 Years of Age in Japan: A Descriptive Study on a Nationwide Exploratory Questionnaire Survey to Caregivers.

Leftover medications are a global concern for harm to health and inadequate medical care costs. However, information on leftover medicines and their inappropriate use in children in Japan is lacking. We aimed to clarify the proportion of leftover and re-use of children's medications in Japan. We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional questionnaire survey using eight web-based domains, which covered parents' demographics, children's demographics, actual practices in handling about leftover (1) acute medication, (2) chronic medication, (3) short-term medicine, (4) antibiotic, and (5) topical medication, and attitudes towards leftover medicine. The questionnaire comprised 40 questions. We obtained responses from 3046 caregivers with children aged under 6 years before elementary school. Among these participants, 95% (2674/2809), 57% (147/256), and 69% (1687/2457) had experience with leftover acute medication use, medication for chronic disease, and short-term medication use, respectively. Instances of leftover antibiotics being given to the child's brother/sister, parents, and child's friends were 8.7, 7.9, and 3.2%, respectively. This trend was similar to other medication categories. In conclusion, most caregivers have experienced leftover medications; however, managing leftover medications depends on their beliefs and is influenced by inadequate knowledge about medications. Most of these cases lead to inadequate use of medications in children. Medical staff, especially pharmacists, need to educate and instruct caregivers on the appropriate use of children's medications.

Three-Dimensional Animated Videos Improve Caregiver Craniosynostosis Education.

Background: Craniosynostosis management involves various surgical options early in a patient's life. Nevertheless, few three-dimensional (3D) tools exist to help caregivers comprehend craniosynostosis anatomy and surgical options. This study aims to assess the efficacy of 3D animated videos for enhancing craniosynostosis education in caregivers. Methods: We created 3D animated videos describing anatomy and surgical options (eg, fronto-orbital advancement, posterior vault reconstruction) for three craniosynostosis diagnoses: bicoronal, metopic, and sagittal. In a cross-sectional survey, caregivers rated their understanding of craniosynostosis on 10-point Likert-scales, labelled anatomic sutures, and answered true/false general (eg, "The sutures have fused too early") and diagnosis-specific (eg, "The distractors are not removed after surgery") craniosynostosis knowledge questions. Respondents were then shown an animated video and asked the same set of questions after watching the video. Results: A total of 69 craniosynostosis caregivers (mean age 35 years, 73% Caucasian, 64% female) completed the survey. After watching the video, caregivers self-rated their understanding of craniosynostosis as significantly higher (mean score difference: 2.62, P < .01). Caregivers also scored significantly higher on the general and diagnosis-specific knowledge questions (mean score difference: 1.27, P < .01). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that our animated videos improved caregiver craniosynostosis understanding and knowledge. These findings may inform how surgeons approach future caregiver craniosynostosis education.

Dementia knowledge of family caregivers in Indonesia: A cross-sectional survey study.

As the population ages, the prevalence of dementia in Indonesia is rapidly increasing. In Indonesia, dementia care is primarily provided by informal or family caregivers. However, there is limited information about these caregivers' understanding of dementia and the factors that may influence their knowledge. Given that family members are the primary source of dementia care in Indonesia, it is essential to understand their knowledge and identify any gaps to inform future educational interventions. To explore the knowledge of dementia among Indonesian family caregivers and identify the sociodemographic factors associated with dementia knowledge. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2022 with 200 family caregivers who were members of Alzheimer's Indonesia (ALZI) support groups. These caregivers received invitations via ALZI to complete a translated version of the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale (DKAS-I). Independent t-tests and ANOVAs were used to examine differences in dementia knowledge across various subgroups, such as gender, education, and age. Seventy-six family caregivers completed the DKAS-I (38% response rate). Respondents had an average age of 49 years, were mostly female, and the majority were children of people with dementia. Over two-thirds of the DKAS-I items were answered correctly by family caregivers, with the 'care considerations' domain scoring the highest. Age, relationship to the person with dementia (being a child), and prior dementia education were significantly correlated with higher dementia knowledge in our sample. Family caregivers of people living with dementia across 10 Indonesian provinces who were members of dementia support groups demonstrated moderate dementia knowledge. Targeted education is needed to address gaps in knowledge about communication and behavioural changes in people with dementia and other areas related to quality of care. There is an opportunity for gerontological nurses with specialised dementia knowledge to lead educational initiatives for family caregivers to enhance their capacity. Future research should also investigate the dementia knowledge of caregivers in the general population, who may be older and less educated compared to the participants in this study.

Factors Influencing Meal Provision and Dietary Support Behaviour of Caregivers of People with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Caregivers play an important role in supporting care recipients to navigate their health needs, including adherence to dietary recommendations, which are complex and multifaceted. This study aims to (i) describe the nutrition knowledge of caregivers of people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), and (ii) explore caregivers' perceptions of their role in providing healthy meals and nutrition support for care recipients. A cross-sectional study design employed a multi-strategy research approach. Caregivers (n = 78) of people with stage 1-5 CKD or post-transplant were recruited from a single centre. Their nutrition knowledge was assessed quantitatively with the revised General Nutrition Knowledge questionnaire. Theory-informed semi-structured interviews of a sub-sample (n = 12) qualitatively explored caregiver perceptions. Most caregivers were female (75.6%) and cared for a male care recipient (87%; aged 74 (66; 80) yrs.). The caregivers (75.6%) provided a meal ≥6 times/week to their care recipient and had moderate nutrition knowledge (66.1 (60.5; 73.9)%). Four themes emerged describing the caregivers' perceptions of meal provision and nutrition support, including the following: (i) food literacy skills are valued; (ii) social support is important; (iii) caregivers' sense of social responsibility; and (iv) the management of complex and multifaceted dietary needs. The caregivers had moderate nutrition knowledge; they wanted to provide healthy meals and support to their care recipients to adhere to dietary recommendations. Targeted, co-designed nutrition education programs for caregivers may enhance nutrition care delivery to people with CKD.

Knowledge and perception of asthma among parents of children with asthma.

Parents' knowledge is an integral part of healthcare quality, impacting treatment adherence, patient loyalty and healthcare utilisation in pediatric asthma. Parental knowledge is particularly crucial as parents influence decision-making for their child's healthcare. To assess parents' knowledge and perceptions of their children's asthma and to identify areas for weakness in therapeutic education. This is transversal survey study based on validated and translated self-administered questionnaire (Arabic asthma knowledge questionnaire AAKQ). The study was conducted in 2 departments: pediatric primary care department at Elomrane and pediatric pneumology outpatient clinics at Bechir Hamza children's hospital of Tunis during 6 months (March2022- October2022). One hundred forty-four parents were involved in the study. Most of the participants were mothers. The mean age was 38 years. Only 27,0% had higher education and smoking in parents was observed in 58% of cases. Our results showed moderate knowledge in 67,9% of participants. The mean of the total knowledge score was 57,7/85. Forty-six per cent of parents had poor knowledge for the first category of the questionnaire. The second category was the most successful part where only 14% had poor knowledge. The mean score of the third category was 13,5/20 with 35,4% of parents having poor knowledge. The mean of total knowledge was found to be higher among participants with higher education (P=0,000), when the gender of the child is masculine (P=0,038), when the parents were asked in Hospital of children of Tunis (P=0,003) and when there is a history of asthma in the siblings (P=0,05). No difference in caregiver's knowledge was based on their age or gender or history of asthma, on the age of the child, his hospitalization for asthma, his asthma control level or his compliance with medication. Knowledge of parents and their children suffering from asthma is acceptable but insufficient. An approach focusing on improving patient education skills is needed to help families understand and accept the disease and achieve optimal control.

Effect of Emergency Scenario-Based Training Program on Knowledge, Self-confidence, and Competency of Elderly Caregiver Volunteers in a Rural Thai Community: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

Many older people with comorbidities encounter emergency or life-threatening situations, but the response is often neglected or delayed, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality rates. Community preparedness to reduce the impact of emergency crises on older people is essential. This study aimed to determine the effect of an emergency scenario-based training program (ESBTP) for elderly care on the knowledge, self-confidence, and competency of volunteer caregivers in a rural Thai community. The one-group pre-post-test, quasi-experimental study, was conducted with a non-randomized research sampling of 40 community healthcare volunteers in Vibhavadi district, Surat Thani, Thailand. The research was conducted between October and December 2021. The ESBTP was based on Bloom's learning theory. The research instrument was a three-part questionnaire measuring knowledge, self-confidence, and competency in geriatric life-threatening surveillance and emergency assistance (GLTSEA) at one, four, and eight weeks of training. Data were analyzed using Bonferroni statistics and repeated measures ANOVA through the software IBM SPSS version 28 with hypothesis testing at P<0.05. The results revealed that at Week 1, Week 4, and Week 8, the volunteers attending the ESBTP demonstrated significantly higher GLTSEA competency (P<0.001). Otherwise, the participants were not significantly different in GLTSEA knowledge (P=0.068) and self-confidence (P= 0.052) after the training. Volunteers' competency increased after ESBTP, but there must be continuity in community training to develop the relevant knowledge, self-confidence, and skills for emergencies.

Exploring the Experiences of Parents Caring for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Nepal

This study aimed to explore the experiences of parents caring for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Ten parents (three males, seven females) with at least seven years of ASD caregiving experience were purposively sampled. In-depth interviews, recorded with consent, were conducted and transcribed, supplemented by phone interviews. Manual analysis of the data revealed common themes and patterns, offering insights into the challenges and experiences of ASD caregiving in Nepal. Parents in Nepal invest significant time and resources into their children's well-being, but identifying atypical behavior, particularly in children with ASD, might lead to stress and complications. Challenges in effective parenting stem from cultural, economic, and knowledge gaps in ASD caregiving. While sharing culture and essential caregiving knowledge aids in stress management, it's insufficient. Local governments and community groups might be offered accessible resources. Similarly, comprehensive support networks, stress management courses, instructional materials, and targeted interventions are necessary to address family-related stress effectively.

Optimizing Stroke Care Transitions: A Patient-Centered Discharge Program for Caregivers

Inadequate discharge planning can worsen long-term outcomes for patients with stroke, delaying their recovery. Equipping caregivers with the knowledge to manage rehabilitation needs is crucial for facilitating a smooth hospital-to-home transition. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of a “Patient-Centered Discharge Program for Caregivers” on the comprehensiveness and clarity of discharge advice provided to caregivers of stroke survivors. Using a quasi-experimental design, the study compared a control group receiving standard discharge planning and an experimental group receiving the “Patient-Centered Discharge Program for Caregivers.” 62 caregivers of stroke survivors formed the participant pool. The program focused on various comprehensive discharge advice domains delivered to the caregivers. The discharge advice, knowledge, and skills of caregivers regarding stroke care were assessed on the day of discharge through questionnaires and checklists. Compared to the control group, the discharge instructions of the experimental group became more comprehensive and clear, with a significant improvement in knowledge and skills regarding stroke care ( p &lt; .05). The knowledge scores of the caregivers showed a statistically significant difference from the control group, with a mean difference of 8.78. ( p &lt; .05). The experimental group demonstrated good skills in nearly all procedures compared to the control group, including oral care, range of motion exercises, feeding, suctioning, and back care ( p &lt; .05). The “Patient-Centered Discharge Program for Caregivers” led to the delivery of more comprehensive discharge instructions, subsequently increasing caregivers’ knowledge. It highlights the benefits of such programs in equipping caregivers for effective discharge planning, with future research needed to evaluate long-term benefits. Trial/Protocol Registration: Clinical Trials Registry India (CTRI) CTRI/2023/07/055602 Link: https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/rmaindet.php?trialid=89913&amp;EncHid=35558.64662&amp;modid=1&amp;compid=19

Predictors of measles-rubella vaccination status in the Savannah Region, Ghana: A cross-sectional study among caregivers of children aged 18–59 months

IntroductionSavannah Region witnessed a decline in measles-rubella (MR) vaccination coverage prior to the measles outbreak in 2022. This study aimed to assess contributory factors of the low routine MR vaccination coverage and proffer recommendations to improve vaccination uptake. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in two districts (Bole and Central Gonja) of Savannah Region from December 2022 to June 2023. Caregivers of children 18–59 months were randomly selected and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to assess predictors of MR vaccination status. ResultsChildren of caregivers with inadequate knowledge of MR vaccination (AOR = 0.58, 95 %CI: 0.47–0.72), travelled more than five km to access health services (AOR = 0.48, 95 %CI: 0.39–0.59), described health workers attitude as poor (AOR = 0.44, 95 %CI: 0.26–0.74), and those who sought treatment for adverse events following immunization (AEFI) from the pharmacy (AOR = 0.65, 95 %CI: 0.51–0.84) were less likely to complete MR vaccination. On the contrary, children of female sex (AOR = 1.27, 95 %CI: 1.05–1.53), aged 24–59 month (AOR = 2.56, 95 %CI: 1.05–1.53), caregivers with primary or secondary education (AOR = 1.43, 95 %CI: 1.11–1.84; and AOR = 2.23, 95 %CI: 1.64–3.03 respectively), and those who did not experience rescheduling of vaccination sessions (AOR = 1.61, 95 % CI: 1.25–2.01) were more likely to complete routine MR vaccination schedule. ConclusionInadequate caregiver knowledge, poor geographical access to health services, poor healthcare worker attitude, and non-institutional management of AEFI significantly contributed to the low MR vaccination uptake in the Savannah Region. Adopting tailored approaches to addressing these factors could improve vaccination coverage.