PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS INFLUENCING GHANAIAN FAMILY CAREGIVERS IN THE POST-OPERATIVE CARE OF THEIR HOSPITALISED PATIENTS

Abstract

This study explored the psychosocial factors influencing family caregivers during the care of patients who underwent surgery and are in pain. Family caregivers play key roles in the care of post-surgical patients in different cultures. However, research has not adequately explored family caregivers’ experiences within the post-operative context in Ghana.An exploratory qualitative design was employed. Data collection involved individual interviews. Concurrent content analysis was undertaken and saturation of data was achieved with 12 family caregivers and one key informant. The participants were recruited from the surgical department of a tertiary health facility in Accra, the capital city of Ghana.The study revealed six themes that influenced family caregivers in the care of post-surgical patients: faith, fear, feeling of relief, empathy, commitment and inadequate knowledge. Health professionals should meaningfully integrate and educate family caregivers on patient care and pain management within the post-surgical context.