Health education strategies directed to caregivers during patient hospitalization

Objective: To evaluate the impact of health education strategies directed to caregivers during patient hospitalization. Methods: Qualitative research conducted with semi-structured interviews with primary caregivers of patients in a home care education project. Data were analyzed according to thematic content, and organized into categories. Results: There was a predominance of verbal instruction with practical demonstration of care, and delivery of educational booklets. Low income and education among the caregivers, severe dependence of patients, and difficulties of home care teams to supply material resources were identified. Conclusion: The health education strategies directed to caregivers during hospitalization helped the implementation of home care techniques. Yet some aspects of home care were compromised by socioeconomic conditions.