Relationship between perception of overload and family functionality in the primary caregiver of the patient with hemodialysis

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the degree of caregiver burden and its relationship with family functionality in the primary caregiver of a hemodialysis patient. Methods: Observational,  prolective, cross-sectional and descriptive study. The Zarit Caregiver Burden Test and the Family APGAR Questionnaire were administered to 279 caregivers. Statistical analysis and the relationship between two nominal qualitative variables were obtained with the χ² test. Results: The degree of mild overload was 61.3% (171), moderate family dysfunction predominated; 26.5% had no degree of caregiver burden; in this group, mild family dysfunction stood out. There was no degree of overload in 26.5% (74), among them, mild family dysfunction stood out. The degree of intense overload was present in 12.2% (34). Severe family dysfunction was more frequent, followed by moderate dysfunction. The degree of overload was related to family functionality (p=0.001). Conclusions: Detecting and treating the primary caregiver in a timely manner would allow us to identify if there is overload and to know their family environment, achieve joint management, and benefit the health of both, since a good caregiver must also take care of their health.