BURNOUT OF PRIMARY CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY

Objective: The aims of this study were to evaluate the burnout of primary caregivers of children with cerebral palsy (CP), and to assess the relationship between burnout levels and the variables. Material and Method: Demographic characteristics, CP type, ambulation status, Gross Motor Functional Classification System (GMFCS) levels, accompanying problems were recorded. Caregivers were asked to fill Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Results: 115 patients were included in the study (56.5% boys, 43.5% girls). Their mean age was 7.84 years. Primary caregivers of 111 children were their mothers (96.5%). The neurologic classification were as follows: diplegia 27.8%, tetraplegia 43.5%, hemiplegia 20%. The GMFCS levels were as follows: level 1 15.7%, level 2 13.9%, level 3 17.4%, level 4 23.5%, level 5 29.6%. MBI subdimensions measurement scores were: reduced personal accomplishment: 23.25, emotional exhaustion: 12.21, and depersonalization: 3.81. We didn't detect any significant correlation between the GMFCS levels of children and caregivers' burnout. The presence of pain (69.6%) and chronic disease (31.3%) were relented with emotional exhaustion (p=0.006, p=0.008, respectively). The children's ambulation status was related with emotional exhaustion (p=0.03). Fathers' lack of interest (27%) was related with depersonalization (p=0.0019). Speech disorder was related with emotional exhaustion and depersonalization (p=0.031, p=0.04, respectively). There was no significant relationship between caregivers' burnout and caregivers' age-education status, income level, the presence of epilepsy and mental retardation in child. Conclusion: The presence of chronic disease and pain, fathers' lack of interest, children's ambulation status and speech disorders were detected as the factors that case caregivers burnout. Psychologic and physical health of caregivers affect child. So, not only children with CP but also their caregivers should be considered.