FAMILY CAREGIVERS’ EXPERIENCES OF CARING FOR PATIENTS WITH HIP FRACTUR

Abstract

Family caregivers play an essential role in supporting patients recovering from hip fractures, particularly when physical limitations restrict mobility and independence. However, caring for a family member with a hip fracture may create considerable physical, emotional, financial, and social challenges. This study explores the experiences of family caregivers supporting patients with hip fractures in the context of public sector healthcare in Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan. A qualitative exploratory framework is developed using an dataset of 90 family caregivers from three anonymised public sector hospitals, with 30 participants assigned to each hospital. The proposed thematic analysis examines caregivers’ responsibilities, emotional distress, physical exhaustion, financial difficulties, challenges in managing daily activities, communication with healthcare professionals, and the transition from hospital to home. The findings identify six major themes: increasing caregiving responsibilities, emotional and psychological burden, physical exhaustion, financial constraints, inadequate professional guidance, and family support and coping strategies. The discussion draws on existing international research to explain how family caregivers negotiate changing responsibilities and respond to the complex needs of patients following hip fracture surgery. The study highlights the importance of caregiver education, discharge planning, rehabilitation guidance, psychological support, and affordable community-based services. It recommends that public sector hospitals recognise family caregivers as important partners in postoperative recovery and incorporate their needs into comprehensive orthopedic care.