Experiences of Home Care Team Members and Family Caregivers in Addressing the Care Needs of Patients With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury During the Post-Discharge Period Publisher



Mohamadirizi S ; Irajpour A ; Mahaabadi A ; Aminmanour B ; Alimohammadi N
Source: Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research Published:2025

Abstract

Background: Providing care for unconscious patients with severe brain injuries at home can be challenging. One of the main difficulties is identifying and addressing their specific care needs. Therefore, the aim of this research is to extract the experiences of home care team members and family caregivers in addressing the care needs of patients with severe traumatic brain injury during the post-discharge period. Materials and Methods: This qualitative study was conducted on caregivers and healthcare providers of patients with severe traumatic brain injury in 2024-2025. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 22 patients' caregivers and health care providers in home. The recorded interviews were transcribed and then analyzed through inductive content analysis. Results: The care needs of patients with severe traumatic brain injury during the post-discharge period were categorized into 15 subcategories and four main categories: physical care needs (maintaining respiratory function, maintaining digestive function, maintaining urinary tract function, maintaining skin integrity, Enhancing physical mobility, Balancing Sleep and Rest, pain management, maintaining personal hygiene, and treatment coherence), mental care needs (managing emotions, improving self-efficacy), social care needs (patient Support, maintaining patient care environment, caregiver support), and spiritual care needs (promoting sense of meaning in life). Conclusions: The results of this study provide a clearer understanding of these needs, aiming to develop a holistic care program tailored to the patients' conditions at home, ultimately improving their quality of life and holistic care. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.