Caregiver Burden, Resilience, and Wellbeing in Cases of Severe Cutaneous Adverse Drug Reactions

Abstract

Background: Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR) can be traumatic and emotionally distressing for both the patients and their families. However, caregivers must also take care of themselves to prevent burnout. They should seek respite when needed, and prioritise self-care activities that maintain their own wellbeing. Aim: This study aimed to explore the caregiver’s burden and resilience in patients experiencing SCARs. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study included patients experiencing SCARs who presented with their caregivers. Patients and their caregivers were enquired about their sociodemographic variables, and were administered the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). Caregivers were further given the Burden Scale for Family Caregivers (BSFC) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief (WHOQOL-BREF). Results: Quality of life assessment suggested diminished physical and psychological health among the caregivers. Burden grade conferred 27.1% of caregivers experiencing severe burden, while 56.5% and 16.5% of caregivers experienced mild and moderate burden, respectively. Furthermore, 85.9% of caregivers showed low resilience. Increase in reaction severity was associated with greater caregiver burden and low resilience (p=0.001). Higher age and lower socioeconomic strata were also associated with increased burden and lesser caregiver resilience (p<0.001). Conclusion: Providing care for individuals with SCARs can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring assistance with daily activities, wound care, and medication management. Caregivers may face challenges as they navigate the complexities of the condition; hence, understanding and addressing the challenges faced by caregivers is of utmost importance.