Caregiving experiences of informal caregivers of adult stroke patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative systematic review protocol

Objective:The objective of this review is to identify, appraise, and synthesize the best available qualitative evidence on the caregiving experiences of informal caregivers of adult stroke patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Introduction:The functional and health outcomes of stroke patients are directly impacted by the mental and physical well-being of the patient's informal caregiver, which have been negatively affected by COVID-19 due to a lack of caregiver education and competency in caring for stroke patients. Therefore, improvement of the informal caregiver experience will preserve the stroke survivor-caregiver relationship and the care goals of stroke patients. Inclusion criteria:This review will consider qualitative studies focusing on the experiences of informal caregivers of adult stroke patients during COVID-19. Only informal caregivers will be included, defined as individuals of any age, gender, or culture who provide care, typically unpaid, to someone with whom they have a personal relationship (ie, family or friend). Studies conducted in inpatient settings, rehabilitation settings, community care settings, or home care settings will be considered. Methods:The databases to be searched include MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, and PsycINFO. Sources of unpublished studies and gray literature will include ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, MedNar, and the American Heart Association. Studies published from 2019 to the present will be considered and data synthesis will be conducted using the meta-aggregation approach. Confidence in the findings will be assessed using the ConQual approach. Systematic review registration number:PROSPERO CRD42022326666