INFORMAL CAREGIVERS’ EXPERIENCES IN ACUTE HOME- BASED CARE FOR RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS

Abstract

Introduction: Acute home-based management programs enable acutely ill patients to receive care at home instead of being admitted to a hospital. Informal caregivers play a crucial role in these programs, yet little is known about their experiences and potential burden. The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives and experiences of informal caregivers during acute home-based management of patients with community-acquired acute respiratory tract infections (CA-ARTI), as perceived by both caregivers and patients. Methods: A secondary qualitative analysis was conducted, based on semi-structured interviews originally collected for a study evaluating the feasibility of acute home-based management of patients with CA-ARTI. The original study was conducted between 2021 and 2023 in the Netherlands. Interviews were eligible if an informal caregiver was present. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Out of 17 interviews conducted, 7 were included, of which 6 involved both caregiver and patient, and 1 involved the caregiver alone. Four themes were identified: (1) Decision-making on home-based management, (2) Information provision, (3) Caregiver burden, (4) Experiences with home-based management. Caregivers were often excluded from decision-making and lacked information regarding their responsibilities. Caregiving was stressful and demanding, particularly in the initial phase. However, caregivers expressed positive reflections on the overall experience of home-based care. Conclusion: Informal caregivers are essential during acute-home based management of patients with CA- ARTI. Limited involvement in decision-making and insufficient preparation for emergencies emerged as key challenges. Future home-based programs should actively involve caregivers from the start and give them clear, practical information.