Abstract:
This study explored the experiences of informal caregivers of stroke survivors in
the Cape Coast Municipality of the Central Region of Ghana. In order to achieve
this purpose, a purposive sampling technique was endorsed and used to select
twelve caregivers who participated in the study. Data collection which was driven
by a semi-structured interview guide was done by the use of tape-recorded
interviews which lasted for 45 minutes. Thematic content analysis was used to
analyze transcribed data. Three major themes with each having sub-themes were
derived. These included challenges caregivers faced, strategies for managing
disease-related tasks associated with stroke care and the support system available
to caregivers. Findings from the study indicated that challenges that confronted
informal caregivers mostly in the discharge of their duties included financial
constraint, the health of the caregiver being affected and emotional challenges. It
was further revealed that caregivers employed strategies for bathing the patient,
strategies for medication, communication strategies and feeding strategies. It was
finally revealed that support systems that were available for caregivers of stroke
patients included support from families, communities, religious organizations and
health professionals. It was, therefore, recommended that a well-designed program
aimed at equipping the caregivers with requisite skills that will enable them
effectively care for their patients should be organized. Also, there must be followup
activities in which nurses and doctors who attended to the caregivers and their
patients could visit caregivers in their home to ascertain their challenges as well as
that of the patients. The study further recommended that there should be workshops
or conferences on home care to enhance nurses’ interest and potentials. In addition,
it was recommended that clinicians who have specialized in the care and treatment
of stroke are brought to the hospital or if possible trained.
