Carers and traumatic brain injury: a qualitative synthesis

Background: Published research studying the effects of informal caregiving for an individual with traumatic brain injury (TBI) identified trends such as grief, depression, and lower quality of life. This systematic review examined qualitative research that explored adult carer experiences to describe their challenges and synthesise themes of importance to this population. Contents: An electronic search was undertaken of the following databases PsycArticles, ASSIA, MEDLINE, PILOTS, CINAHL and Proquest Nursing, from their inception to 2011. Studies were screened for inclusion and subject to quality assessment, data extraction and data synthesis by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument (QARI) by one reviewer. Syntheses developed from the primary findings showed carers had concerns about their future roles and the adaptation of their relative with TBI. There were difficulties in balancing daily life with promoting independence. Carers became expert in their role but required quality information and support. There was a negative impact on carers' occupational choices. Conclusions: This review has produced four synthesised findings to inform evidence-based practice. They underpin the need for inventive information provision, high quality inter-professional education, and a focus on the occupational balance and engagement of the carer.