Fatigue and Vigilance-Related Factors in Family Caregivers of Patients With Advanced Cancer: A Cross-sectional Study : Cancer Nursing

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Fatigue and Vigilance-Related Factors in Family Caregivers of Patients With Advanced Cancer

A Cross-sectional Study

Yiin, Jia-Jean MD, PhD; Chen, Ya-Yun MS; Lee, Kwo-Chen PhD

Author Information
Cancer Nursing 45(2):p E621-E627, 3/4 2022. | DOI: 10.1097/NCC.0000000000000944

Abstract

Background 

Family caregivers (FCs) commonly experience fatigue during caregiving. The factors of fatigue in the FCs of patients with advanced cancer have not yet been investigated in Taiwan.

Objective 

This study investigated potential predictors of fatigue in the FCs of patients with advanced cancer.

Methods 

A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on 184 FCs. Data were collected using the Checklist Individual Strength and the palm-based psychomotor vigilance test. A linear regression model was the main statistical method for identifying the factors predictive of fatigue in FCs.

Results 

Subjective and objective measurements revealed that 95% of the FCs had fatigue and poor vigilance. Those who spent more time each day on caregiving tasks, had no religious beliefs, had a full- or part-time job, and had a greater caregiver burden experienced greater fatigue.

Conclusions 

Fatigue and poor vigilance were common in the Taiwanese FCs of patients with advanced cancer. Family caregivers with risk factors for fatigue must be identified and given access to resources for assistance.

Implication for Practice 

Healthcare providers must proactively assess FCs for fatigue and vigilance status and provide interventions appropriate for individual needs.

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