A Study on Quality of Sleep among Primary Caretakers of Patients Admitted in a Tertiary Care Centre in South India

Abstract

Introduction: The caregiving landscape in India involves millions providing long-term care, but many face chronic stress, impacting their sleep quality and, consequently, their overall health. Globally, poor sleep quality poses significant health risks, influencing outcomes like mental disorders, heart disease, and metabolic issues. Examining the sleep quality of caregivers in a tertiary health care center becomes crucial, given their stress levels and challenging responsibilities. Understanding their sleep patterns and difficulties becomes a vital stress assessment, considering the potential health risks associated with inadequate sleep. This study aims not only to evaluate caregivers' sleep quality but also to raise awareness about the health implications of poor sleep, paving the way for interventions to enhance sleep quality among caregivers. Ultimately, it contributes to public health by emphasizing the significance of quality sleep and advocating for better sleep practices among caregivers. Objectives: The study aims to assess the quality of sleep and the factors influencing it among primary caretaker of patients admitted to a tertiary healthcare center in South India. Methods and Material: Hospital-based Cross-sectional study was conducted among 398 caretakers of the patients admitted in Dr. Somervell Memorial CSI Mission Medical College, Karakonam from August 1st to October 1st 2023. Predesigned Interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire was used to get relevant information. Data was entered in Epidata v3.1. And analysis was carried out in SPSS v26.0. Results: Most admissions ranged a day to over a month, emphasizing the diverse duration of caregiving responsibilities. Approximately 56.3% of caretakers responded that they experienced notable sleep disturbance following patient admission, with a primary contributor being a change in the hospital environment (51.8%). Majority of the caretakers (72.1%) spent both day and night caring for patients and 69.1% dedicated a full 24 hours, indicating sole family responsibility. Shift-based caregiving (20%) and altered sleep patterns were reported, as 57% felt tired upon waking, and 59.8% experienced daytime sleepiness post-admission. Despite challenges, 78.6% perceived adequate family support. Health-related insights revealed 31.7% of patients had chronic diseases, and 33.2% of caretakers reported work hour disruptions. Overall, 66.3% of caretakers had poor sleep quality as per the PSQI Scale, with statistical significance linked to chronic illness (OR 1.74) and inadequate family support (OR 3.15). Conclusions: These outcomes underscore the profound impact of care giving responsibilities on the sleep patterns, daily functioning, and overall well-being of caretakers. The findings shed light on the multifaceted challenges faced by caretakers, highlighting the need for comprehensive support systems to address the physical and emotional demands associated with their vital role in patient care. AIMS & OBJECTIVES: This study aims to assess the quality of sleep and the factors influencing it among primary caretaker of patients admitted to a tertiary healthcare center in South India. METHODS: Hospital-based Cross-sectional study was conducted among 398 caretakers of the patients admitted in Dr. Somervell Memorial CSI Mission Medical College, Karakonam from August 1st to October 1st 2023. Predesigned Interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire was used to get relevant information.  Data was entered in Epidata v3.1.  And analysis was carried out in SPSS v26.0. RESULTS: Most admissions ranged a day to over a month, emphasizing the diverse duration of caregiving responsibilities. Approximately 56.3% of caretakers responded that they experienced notable sleep disturbance following patient admission, with a primary contributor being a change in the hospital environment (51.8%). A majority (72.1%) spent both day and night caring for patients and 69.1% dedicated a full 24 hours, indicating sole family responsibility. Shift-based caregiving (20%) and altered sleep patterns were reported, as 57% felt tired upon waking, and 59.8% experienced daytime sleepiness post-admission. Despite challenges, 78.6% perceived adequate family support. Health-related insights revealed 31.7% of patients had chronic diseases, and 33.2% of caretakers reported work hour disruptions. Overall, 66.3% of caretakers had poor sleep quality as per the PSQI Scale, with statistical significance linked to chronic illness (OR 1.74) and inadequate family support (OR 3.15). CONCLUSIONS: These outcomes underscore the profound impact of caregiving responsibilities on the sleep patterns, daily functioning, and overall well-being of caretakers. The findings shed light on the multifaceted challenges faced by caretakers, highlighting the need for comprehensive support systems to address the physical and emotional demands associated with their vital role in patient care.