Role and function of family in care of patients with stroke in community

Abstract

Background: The increasing of stroke prevalence is high year by year, and Indonesia is the number one for cause of mortality. After three months, stroke survivors require long-term care. A stroke is a lifelong change for both the stroke survivor and the family. Family caregiver is included in multidisciplinary that should provide the patients with stroke because of the unique demands on that population. There is lack of study about stroke care in Indonesia. Objective: to explore the role and function of family in care of patients with stroke in community, Banjarmasin. Method: A critical ethnography design used in this study to explore and critically analyze role and function of family in care of patients with stroke in community. There were 15 key informants (family caregivers) in this study using purposive sampling. Content analysis was used to answer the research question. Result: Daily care activity, spiritual activity, rehabilitation and offering medicine, decision maker, and financial support are the role and function of family in care of patients with stroke in community setting. Conclusion: Family caregivers are playing an important role in caring for their relatives who have suffered from strokes. They should work together with health workers to help the patient for enhancing the quality of life of patient.