Caregiver Burnout with Patients in Minimally Conscious State

Professional Caregiver Burnout with Patients in Minimally Conscious State
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Gosseries, O, Demertzi, A, Ledoux, D, Bruno, M-A, Vanhaudenhuyse, A, Thibaut, A, Laureys, S & Schnakers, C (2012), Brain Injury, Vol. 26 (12), pp. 1493-1499.

A brief summary of current research.

Researchers in this study found burnout, emotional exhaustion, and depersonalization (a sense of detachment) among professional caregivers managing patients with severe brain injury. Preventing burnout is essential to promote quality care for these challenging patients.

Find out more.

Burnout in Healthcare Workers Managing Chronic Patients with Disorders of Consciousness
Posted on BrainLine January 7, 2013.

Comments (5)

Please remember, we are not able to give medical or legal advice. If you have medical concerns, please consult your doctor. All posted comments are the views and opinions of the poster only.

Anonymous replied on

Yes. Caregivers can experience all of these emotions, and many times they aren't even aware of it, because of their attention to care. If you represent an assisted living or other care facility, you need to train your team to look for these signs. Regardless, if you work for a care facility and look after residents or you are taking care of a loved one at home, you need to stay mentally and physically fit to continue doing your job

Anonymous replied on

VA has a program called the Aid and Attendance program to provide financial assistance for patients at home, this could help you hire someone to help. It takes a few months to begin and complete the process. Here is the link http://www.benefits.va.gov/pension/aid_attendance_housebound.asp

Anonymous replied on

single caregiver for three years and no help from family in other states.  No money for outside help. No time to raise children, because TBI husband is a third child. What are some options to get help?  TBI patient is 100% VA, but VA hasn't helped yet. 

Anonymous replied on

The burnout phenomenon is all too common for both professional and non-professional caregivers. For family members, burnout can be especially hard as accompanied by confusing thoughts of guilt, stress, and denial. Many caregivers aren’t aware that assisted living communities offer short-term overnight stays for seniors who need assistance with daily living. This service, called respite care, allows family caregivers to travel, run errands or just have some much needed alone-time without worrying about their older loved ones’ well-being. To read more about respite care, receive caregiver tips and information, or to find a respite community near you, visit http://www.aplaceformom.com/respite-care

Anonymous replied on

Never could find out how to get a caretaker paid for.... wish I could get some $$ to help me pay for mine