Predictors of burden and quality of sleep among family caregivers of patients with cancer

Purposes This study aimed to (1) assess the levels of burden and quality of sleep among family caregivers (FCs) of patients with cancer and (2) examine the predictors of burden among FCs of patients with cancer in Jordan. Methods A convenience sample of 111 FCs of patients with cancer has completed the Caregiver Burden Inventory and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to assess the levels of burden and quality of sleep. Results The mean and (standard deviation) of burden for FCs was 37.9 (16.3) indicating high level of burden. The mean and (standard deviation) of quality of sleep for FCs was 9.1 (4.3) reflecting poor quality of sleep. The multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify the significant predictors of burden. The study model was able to explain 36% of variance in burden. Burden was significantly predicted by poor quality of sleep for FCs, stage of cancer for patients, side effects of treatment, presence of chronic illnesses among FCs, and the level of education for FCs. Conclusions Supportive care for FCs, considering all predictors of burden, needs to be considered in order to reduce their burden, which will consequently maintain their caregiving role.