Interventions improving well‐being of adult cancer patients’ caregivers: A systematic review

Abstract

Aim
The aim of this study was to determine what kind of psychosocial interventions aimed at improving the well‐being of adult cancer patient caregivers were developed, and to describe the methodological characteristics and clinical effectiveness of the interventions which could be included in the nursing care plans.


Design
Systematic review


Data sources
A systematic search of three databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) was conducted to identify peer‐reviewed papers published between years 2004–2019.


Review Methods
The review was guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute manual for systematic reviews. Data were extracted and appraised by three reviewers using standardized checklists. Narrative synthesis was used to analyse the data.


Results
A total of 37 studies underwent analysis. Most of the studies described psychoeducational interventions, designed for patient‐caregiver dyads, delivered face‐to‐face. There was a great variety in caregiver outcomes and measurement tools used. Even though most studies used a randomized controlled design and standardized intervention protocols, many reported problems with recruitment and attrition. Most studies reported that the intervention improved caregiver outcomes, yet the majority of them failed to report effect sizes.


Conclusion
There are currently a plethora of successful interventions available for cancer patient caregivers which can be included to the nursing care plan. Psychoeducational online interventions which include a social support component may have the best potential in supporting caregivers. It is important to address specific caregiver needs at different cancer stages rather than general needs of caregivers in future interventions.


Impact
This review suggests that despite a large number of different interventions which can be included in the nursing care plan to improve the support offered to caregivers, some issues should be addressed while designing an intervention study. The emphasis should be placed on reporting effect sizes, focusing on specific caregiver needs and improving recruitment, retention strategies and sustainability of caregiver interventions.