The impact of caregiving on the psychological well-being of family caregivers and cancer patients

Abstract

Objectives: To provide an overview of patient and caregiver emotional distress; examine the sources of their distress, review evidence-based interventions that can reduce distress, and provide guidelines for assessment and intervention.

Data sources: Peer-reviewed publications.

Conclusion: There is a significant, reciprocal relationship between patient and caregiver emotional distress. Sources of distress vary by phase of illness. Evidence-based interventions can reduce distress and anxiety, but often are not implemented in practice.

Implications for nursing practice: Nurses need to assess patients and family caregivers for distress and intervene to reduce distress by fostering patient-caregiver teamwork, communication, and self-care; providing information; and referring to resources as needed.