Abstract:
Background: Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an acute autoimmune disorder
affecting the peripheral nervous system and the leading cause of acute flaccid paralysis.
The sudden onset and unpredictable recovery process place substantial physical,
psychological, social, and financial strain on caregivers, leading to caregiver burden.
Aim: The aim of the study was investigating the level of Caregiver Burden of Patient
with Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional study design was used. The study was
conducted in the neurology units and outpatient departments of the Centre for the
Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP) Savar (head office) and its branches.
Results: The study findings revealed that caregiver burden was highly prevalent among
the respondents. Based on the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) scoring, 17.6% of
caregivers experienced little or no burden, 35.2% had mild to moderate burden, 28.6%
reported moderate to severe burden, and 18.6% experienced severe burden. Overall,
82.4% of caregivers experienced some degree of burden, with nearly 47.2% falling
within the moderate to severe and severe categories combined. Female caregivers
demonstrated higher burden levels compared to males. Additionally, caregivers from
lower socio-economic backgrounds and those in the middle-aged group reported
significantly higher burden scores. Statistical analysis showed a significant association
between caregiver burden and selected socio-demographic variables (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for caregiver-focused interventions,
psychosocial support, and policy-level initiatives to reduce the burden and improve the
overall well-being of caregivers.
Key words: Caregiver burden, Guillain-Barre Syndrome, ZBI, Primary Caregiver
Description:
This dissertation is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Occupational therapy, Bangladesh Health Professions Institute, Faculty of Medicine, the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh.
