A pilot randomized, controlled trial of the effectiveness of a psychoeducational intervention on family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer

Abstract

Purpose/objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of a psychoeducational intervention, the Caring for the Caregiver Programme (CCP).

Design: A pilot randomized, controlled trial, two-group pretest, and repeated post-tests.

Setting: Four home hospice organizations and an outpatient clinic in Singapore.

Sample: 80 caregivers were randomized into experimental and standard care groups.

Methods: Outcomes were measured at baseline, week 4, and week 8 after the intervention. The standard care group received routine home hospice care, and the intervention group received the CCP in addition to routine care.

Main research variables: Quality of life (QOL), social support, stress and depression, self-efficacy in self-care, closeness with the patient, rewards, and knowledge.

Findings: Compared to the standard care group, the intervention group reported significantly higher QOL, social support satisfaction and number of supported people, closeness with the patient, self-efficacy in self-care, rewards of caregiving, and knowledge, and lower stress and depression.

Conclusions: The CCP had positive effects on family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer.

Implications for nursing: A psychoeducational intervention potentially could help caregivers cope with the demands of caregiving.

Keywords: family caregivers; home hospice care; palliative care; psychoeducational intervention.