Hidden burdens of orthopedic injury care: the lost providers.
BACKGROUND
There are no previously known studies on the effects of orthopedic trauma on informal caregivers despite rich literature in other areas of caregiving. In this prospective study, we characterize personal and socioeconomic impact on orthopedic trauma caregivers.


METHODS
Ninety-nine subjects were given the Caregiver Burden Scale and an original survey measuring emotional, employment, and socioeconomic burden. Demographic, patient injury, and treatment data were also collected.


RESULTS
Seventy percent of caregivers were female family members of the patient. Fifty-four percent experienced substantial disruption to social life and emotional stress. Fifty-one percent spent more than 21 hrs/wk caregiving postinjury. Before/after injury time spent caring for the patient was statistically significant (p < 0.01). Many caregivers experienced employment stress; 8% quit their jobs. Before/after injury employment stress was statistically significant (p < 0.01). Caregivers also expressed considerable financial stress.


CONCLUSIONS
Socioeconomic impacts related to caregiving experiences extend beyond the clinical care of the patient with caregivers facing extensive stress, financial drain, and employment difficulties. Understanding the complex nature of caring for orthopedic patients may assist in connecting patients and caregivers to the appropriate services and further improve patient outcomes.
Ziran
Bruce H
BH
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Atlanta Medical Center, 303 Parkway Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA. Bruce.Ziran@tenethealth.com
Barrette-Grischow
Mary-Kate
MK
Hull
Thomas
T
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D017028:Caregivers / Q000191:economics / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009141:Musculoskeletal System / Q000293:injuries*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012944:Social Support; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000191:economics