the effect of family-oriented discharge program on the level of preparedness for care-giving and stress experienced by the family of stroke survivors

Objectives: many families in iran fail to adapt to their new role of being a stroke caregiver and experience high levels of distress; thus, they may need some form of support. the present study aimed to develop a discharge planning program for the family caregivers of stroke patients in iran. we also determined the program efficacy on their level of stress and preparedness for caregiving.methods: a posttest only randomized controlled trial design was conducted on 60 family caregivers of stroke survivors. the study participants (n=30) in the experimental group received a family caregiveroriented discharge planning program consisting of 3 phases; assessing families' educational needs, educating families, and followup calls. the routine hospital care was provided to the controls (n=30). the data were collected using kingston caregiver stress scale and the preparedness for caregiving scale. data were analyzed by spss. results: the level of preparedness for caregiving was significantly higher in the experimental group. the experimental group experienced lower levels of stress, compared to the control group members (p<0.001).discussion: to enhance family preparedness for caregiving and decrease their stress, it is necessary to use a discharge planning program with an emphasis on individualized education and postdischarge followup. this program could be implemented in iranian hospitals at a low cost. the findings of this study may provide a reference for specialist nurses who cope with stroke caregivers in iran.