Concept Analysis of Burden in Caregivers of Stroke Survivors During the Early Poststroke Period

Abstract

It is important to understand burden in caregivers of stroke survivors during the early poststroke period if we are to prevent or decrease the longer-term experience of caregiver burden and its consequences. This article reports a concept analysis of burden in caregivers of stroke survivors during the early poststroke period. A literature review using MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and ISI Web of Knowledge databases (1960-2014) identified 32 relevant articles published from 1993 to 2013. Rodgers's evolutionary method of concept analysis was used. Three attributes--objective and subjective aspects, time spent caring for the stroke survivor, and uncertainty about the future for the stroke survivor and caregiver--were identified. Multiple definitions of caregiver burden have been used. In the early poststroke period, burden appears closely interconnected with other factors, some of which may be modifiable.

Keywords: burden; caregiver; concept analysis; strain; stress; stroke.