Physical well-being of oncology caregivers: an important quality-of-life domain

Abstract

Objectives: To provide an overview of research and practice related to the physical well-being of oncology caregivers.

Data sources: Literature retrieved through the PubMed and CINAHL databases.

Conclusion: Caregivers play an important role in supporting people with cancer at every stage of the illness trajectory. Because caregiving is inherently stressful, caregivers should be routinely included in the assessment and treatment of patients with cancer.

Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nurses are uniquely positioned to play a vital role in recognizing caregiver strain and intervening to break the cycle of unremitting physical and psychosocial burden.