Article

OBJECTIVE: To document the gap between actual and desired ideal services for
relatives post-stroke from three perspectives: relatives, stroke clients and
health professionals. METHODS: A two-phase qualitative design and consisting of
in-depth interviews (Phase 1) and 3 focus groups (Phase 2). The interview sample
consisted of 25 relatives (mean age 53.4 (standard deviation 12.7); women =
21/25) and 16 individuals with a first stroke (mean age = 55.7 (standard
deviation 11.2); women = 7/16). The focus group sample size varied from 5 to 7
participants. An interview guide validated by experts was used. Audio content was
transcribed verbatim and rigorously analyzed by two team members. RESULTS:
Services received by relatives are diversified, and relatives' perceptions range
from receiving no services to being satisfied with services received. Even when
participants were satisfied, ideal services were still desired: they would have
liked to receive services earlier and without having to seek. Four main factors
emerged as influencing the amount and quality of services received, including the
individual's ability to seek. CONCLUSIONS: A gap remains between actual and ideal
services for relatives post-stroke. It is crucial to legitimized relatives' role
as clients and to systematically assess the patient's social environment in order
to provide services in accordance with needs.

Langue : ANGLAIS