The study aimed to assess the burnout and lived experiences among caregivers of chronic liver disease (CLD) patients. The research approach used was a mixed method (quantitative and qualitative) approach, with 100 samples selected using purposive sampling techniques. The caregiver burnout index was used to assess burnout, and data was collected from 20 subjects using in-depth interviews.
The results showed that the overall mean score of burnout experienced by caregivers of CLD patients is 50%. Among them, 58% were severely burnt out, 34% moderately burnt out, and 8% low burnt out. There was no significant association of burnout experienced by caregivers of CLD patients with selected baseline variables.
The study revealed five themes: Feeling of entanglement of burden, financial crisis, sense of entrapment, disruption in the pace of life, impact on health, and ten sub-themes. The majority of participants reported feelings of sadness, suffering, hopelessness, and helplessness.
The study revealed that the majority of caregivers of CLD patients had severe burnout. Caregivers often receive little attention and the main focus is on the patient, leading to depression and reduced quality of life. Comprehensive care for their family caregivers is lacking in the US health system, leaving millions struggling under the weight of unmanaged symptoms, stress, and emotional burden.
In India, there is a paucity of studies exploring the lived experiences and burnout of care givers of chronic liver disease patients. The study aims to provide individualized interventions to ease the future burden of caregivers and help them incorporate their personal experiences into care giving and accept more accountability in managing the disease.
St. Johns Medical College Hospital has a well-established gastroenterology department. On average 20–25 patients with CLD consult a physician in the OPD and 4 to 5 patients get admitted to the ward every day. Hence the investigator was motivated to undertake this study.
