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Targeted needs analysis for people who have survived stroke and their caregivers in local communities in Zimbabwe


F Kaseke
L Gwanzura
J Hakim
D.F. Chiwayo
A Stewart

Abstract

Background: The occurrence of stroke is sudden and devastating. Patients and caregivers are ill prepared to deal with the resultant disability. There are no data about the challenges they face and their needs in Zimbabwe.

Objective: To explore the challenges faced and needs of stroke survivors and their caregivers at three major referral hospitals in Harare, Zimbabwe. This was done with the view of developing a curriculum to train caregivers of survivors of stroke.

Design: A cross-sectional survey.

Setting: Chitungwiza, Harare and Parirenyatwa Central Hospitals.

Participants: People who had survived a stroke and their caregivers

Materials and Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted using researcher-administered questionnaires with 56 caregivers and 53 patients. In-depth interviews were also carried out with a different group of 12 selected caregivers. Ethical clearance was obtained from relevant Institutional Review Boards (IRBs). Data were descriptively analysed for frequencies and percentages. Thematic issues from interviews were grouped and analysed.

Results: The majority of caregivers who responded to the questionnaires were female (57%), married (54%) and in the age group 18-45 years (64%). Caregivers were mainly related to patients as children (41%) or spouses (27%). Main challenges were encountered during activities of daily living like bathing, toileting and mobilisation. Information needs regarding warning signs of stroke (77%), risk factors of stroke (68%) and how to help patients who had physical limitations meet their physical needs were highlighted. Caregivers wanted to be educated about the stroke and how to care for the patients before they were discharged home. Patients were mainly female (59%) aged above 65 years (55%) They also wanted to know about the condition (87%) and warning signs of stroke (81%). Their main challenge was in doing activities of daily living.

Conclusion: This study provides insight into the challenges and needs of people affected by stroke in local communities in Zimbabwe. The caregivers also highlighted the need to improve caregiving skills through training.


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eISSN: 0008-9176