Self-reported sleep quality in family caregivers of gastric cancer patients who are receiving chemotherapy in Korea

Background. Shifting of cancer care from inpatient to outpatient in Korea can lead to negative outcomes for family caregivers. Little research has been performed on Korean family caregivers' sleep quality and its related symptoms: fatigue and depression. Methods. We obtained data from a convenient sample of 103 family caregivers. Family caregivers completed sleep, depression, fatigue, and quality of life questionnaires. Results. Of family caregivers, 80% had poor sleep quality. Positive correlation existed among symptoms, but symptoms were negatively correlated with quality of life. Conclusions. Health professionals need to include family caregivers in the overall patient care plan.