Balancing burden and bond: challenges and motivations of family caregivers of patients with end-stage liver disease in Northern Ghana—a qualitative inquiry

Abstract

Objective: This study explored the burdens and motivations of family caregivers (FCs) for patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) in a tertiary hospital in Ghana.

Design: A qualitative exploratory, descriptive approach with a purposive sampling technique was adopted. Data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis.

Setting: Participants were recruited from a tertiary hospital in the Northern Region of Ghana.

Participants: 15 FCs aged between 18 and 50 years caring for patients with ESLD were recruited.

Results: The study’s findings revealed that FCs of individuals with ESLD encountered considerable challenges, including sleep deprivation, physical exhaustion, family conflicts, financial difficulties and social restrictions. These difficulties contributed to a sense of being overwhelmed as caregivers strived to fulfil their duties. Family bonds, reciprocal relationships and religious obligations were the motivation/driving force for FCs caring for relatives with ESLD.

Conclusion: Integrating palliative care services in tertiary health facilities will reduce the burdens FCs of patients with ESLD face. Relevant stakeholders in the health sector need to develop culturally sensitive interventions to support FCs caring for patients with ESLD in Ghana.