The relationship between symptom severity of palliative care patients and caregiver readiness and strain levels

Abstract

Background: Caregivers, together with health professionals, play an important role in palliative care and are often the backbone of care for patients facing serious illnesses. The present study was conducted to examine the correlations between the severity of symptoms faced by patients receiving treatment in a palliative care unit and the preparedness and strain levels of caregivers. Methods: The present study had a descriptive and correlational design. The data of the study were collected by using the Descriptive Information Form, Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale, Katz’s Activities of Daily Living Index, Preparedness for Caregiving Scale, and Caregiver Strain Index. STROBE guidelines were adhered to for this study. Results: In the study, it was detected that patients often faced symptoms of decreased wellbeing, anxiety, depression, loss of appetite, and fatigue. According to data on caregiver, the caregivers’ readiness and strain levels associated with caregiving were at a moderate level. A negative and moderate significant correlation was detected between the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (r = -.47; p