Challenges Encountered by Family Caregivers of Prostate Cancer Patients: A Qualitative Inquiry

Abstract BackgroundIn Ghana, prostate cancer is more prevalent than all other cancers with a mortality rate of 75% partly as a result of late presentation to the health care facilities. Limited health services provision across the country and shortages of skilled nurses place a significant demand on family caregivers who are often ill-equipped for the caring role resulting in a lot of challenges. As they are expected to provide complex care at home with little resources, information, and support, yet, the healthcare system rarely addresses the challenging needs of these family caregivers. This study explored the Challenges encountered by family caregivers of people with prostate cancer. MethodsA qualitative phenomenological descriptive study was adapted using a semi-structured interview guide to conduct in-depth interviews with twelve (12) family caregivers of prostate cancer patients selected through a purposive sampling technique at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically.Findings The significant statement extracted from verbatim transcripts (analysis of transcripts) produced three main themes as key challenges relating to; Education and Training needs, Resources and Caregiver-nurse relationship issues with seven (7) sub-themes that collectively hindered the family caregivers ability to effectively perform their caring role. Thus making it difficult for them to meet the care demands. Sub-themes that emerged were; lack of preparedness towards the caring role, lack of knowledge about condition/ treatment, misconception about the condition, lack of accommodation facilities, financial constraints, poor communication and poor staff attitude.ConclusionCaregiving is associated with significant challenges that hinder family caregiver’s ability to effectively care for the patient; further diminishing caregiver’s quality of life and quality of patient care. Healthcare professionals especially nurses should, therefore, consider these challenges faced by family caregivers and put in measures to obviate them through education, preparation, and support.