title: [The experience of being a family caregiver to a person after a stroke: a review of the literature].
abstract: This paper presents a review of literature on the subject of being a family caregiver to a stroke patient. This review allows the nurse to better understand the factors which influence the role of the family caregiver and identifies directions for action to improve the quality of care to this population. The article examines the multidimensional aspects of being a family caregiver to a stroke patient. The Given et al. (1988) model of care explains the interaction of the factors which have an effect on the role of the caregiver. These factors include the quality of the marital relationship, the personal characteristics of the family caregiver, the needs and reactions of the ill person and the environment of the family caregiver. The aim of the model of care is to ensure maximum functioning of the ill person and minimize the negative effects of being a caregiver. The paper also explains how the Strauss and Corbin (1988) health problem trajectory model helps nurses to better understand the reactions and perceptions of a stroke patient. As well, it specifies the existential phenomelogical perspective advocated in caring theory. This care model teaches nurses to understand the individual reactions of the family caregiver and helps her realize the hard realities of life. Such insight assist the family caregiver to develop inner strengths and a sense of control over life which will help the caregiver to transcend her situation.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Gallant
mesh_terms: D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000628:therapy*; D005190:Family; D006701:Home Nursing; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008962:Models, Theoretical
vernacular_title: Le phénomène d'être soignante naturelle auprès d'une personne atteinte d'un accident vasculaire-cérébral: une revue de la littérature.