The Effect of Family-Oriented Discharge Program on the Level of Preparedness for Care-Giving and Stress Experienced by the Family of Stroke Survivors

Many families in Iran fail to adapt to their new role of being a stroke caregiver and experience high levels of distress; thus, they may need some form of support. The present study aimed to develop a discharge planning program for the family caregivers of stroke patients in Iran. We also determined the program efficacy on their level of stress and preparedness for caregiving. A post-test only randomized controlled trial design was conducted on 60 family caregivers of stroke survivors. The study participants (n=30) in the experimental group received a family caregiver-oriented discharge planning program consisting of 3 phases; assessing families’ educational needs, educating families, and follow-up calls. The routine hospital care was provided to the controls (n=30). The data were collected using Kingston Caregiver Stress Scale and the Preparedness for Caregiving scale. Data were analyzed by SPSS. The level of preparedness for caregiving was significantly higher in the experimental group. The experimental group experienced lower levels of stress, compared to the control group members (P<0.001). To enhance family preparedness for caregiving and decrease their stress, it is necessary to use a discharge planning program with an emphasis on individualized education and post-discharge follow-up. This program could be implemented in Iranian hospitals at a low cost. The findings of this study may provide a reference for specialist nurses who cope with stroke caregivers in Iran.