A PILOT STUDY OF SELF-EFFICACY ENHANCING EDUCATION PROGRAM ON FAMILY CAREGIVERS’ COMPETENCIES IN CARING FOR PATIENTS WITH MILD TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose: The number of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) has increased as well as the care demands requiring continuing care from family at home. To reduce the negative consequences and improve outcomes for TBI survivors, effective educational program must be targeted to family caregivers. This pilot study was conducted prior to the actual study to evaluate the feasibility of the self-efficacy enhancing education program on family caregivers’ competencies in caring for patients with mild TBI.
Methods: The self-efficacy enhancing education program was developed based on Bandura’s self-efficacy concept. This program included exploring feeling, teaching, watching the media, and demonstration. Three pairs of family caregivers who cared for mild TBI patients participated in this study. The program was implemented during hospitalization and subjects were followed-up for two times by telephone. The family caregiver’s perceived confidence and performance in caring for mild TBI patients were measured at different points of time.
Results: After completing the program, three family caregivers showed the perceived confidence significantly greater than before. In addition, family caregivers showed high performance and could perform symptoms assessment and management.
Conclusion: The self-efficacy enhancing education program was feasible to do and apply to increase family caregivers’ confidence and performance in caring for patients with mild TBI. However, the program must be further evaluated and tested for its effectiveness compared to routine care.