Journal of Preventive Medicine & Infectious Diseases

Abstract

Chronic and acute pain are very common among patients, especially those with chronic illnesses who are at a higher risk of experiencing untreated pain. Terminally ill patients can be effectively cared for either at home or in healthcare facilities, depending on their prognosis and the resources and preferences available. Pain management requires the collaboration of a multidisciplinary team. Patients may endure pain throughout their illness, which is highly challenging and impacts all aspects of the lives of both caregivers and patients. The study aims to identify the perceived support needs of caregivers of terminally ill patients in relation to pain management.

This quantitative research employs a non-experimental descriptive cross-sectional design. Conducted at Kibo Góra District Hospital in rural Rwanda, the study involved in-home caregivers of patients with end-of-life illnesses receiving hospice care. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling strategy. Inclusion criteria required caregivers to be involved in hospice care at the home level. The sample size consisted of 139 in-home caregivers of patients with terminal illnesses. The study found that home-based caregivers need educational support, including pain management skills, various pain relief techniques, and the ability to assess and treat pain.