Identification of a Cluster of Nursing Diagnoses for a Caregiver Support Group

Abstract

Caregivers providing home care for the elderly are an “at-risk” population because of the multitude of demands placed on them. A cluster of nursing diagnoses, thought to be representative of problems and needs encountered by the community of caregivers, is identified. The diagnoses were developed from the perspective of a community (the support group), yet with recognition of the uniqueness of each caregiving relationship within the group. This cluster of diagnoses has provided the focus for program planning for the support group. Group facilitators became more aware of the range of diffi-culties encountered by the caregivers and gained insight that helped in selecting topics of interest for the informational suggeslions provided at the monthly group meetings. Heightened awareness of this cluster of diagnoses can enable healthcare providers to belter assist caregivers in assuming or continuing in that role. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate intervention relative to the needs of this group may enhance their quality of life and enable them to better fulfill their caregiving responsibilities.

Keywords

caregivers gerontologic nursing nursing diagnosis support psychosocial

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