Table 3 Responsibilities of the caregiver role related to caregiver psychological distress during critical care

“which is stressful too because you’re just going over and over everything, but you need to update certain people” (Spouse, Caregiver 04)

“I mean it’s really hard when somebody is in the hospital and you’ve got a try to take care of a home and visit and everything, you know, and then I felt guilty if I didn’t go.” (Spouse, Caregiver 18)

“I’m almost 70 and I’m dealing with his almost six-year-old son at the same time” (Parent, Caregiver 14)

“When he went into the hospital, then I just, there was nothing to do here for him, I just, you know, just worry about him and go see him and that was about it.” (Sibling, Caregiver 13)

“I had so much on my mind… he’s [the patient] always saying that I’m the problem. No, I’m not, you know.” (Parent, Caregiver 14)

Factor quote:^a “if you’re in a sustainable caregiver role or even a challenging caregiver role, there’s mental health concerns that can come with that….” (Provider, Team member 01)

Strategy quote:^b “I always encourage families to actually record on their phone while they’re getting the training as long as everyone’s okay with that and consents to that, because I often know families are overwhelmed and they’re going to get home with the patient and be like, ‘I have no idea what I’m supposed to do’” (Ancillary staff, Team member 04)

Strategy quote: “So, I do think there’s, there’s some benefit in being exposed [to care activities during hospitalization] and trying to get a better understanding.” (Provider, Team member 01)

Strategy quote: “it’s just you know letting them know basically that I understand and that I’m not just a nurse, I’ve been a patient or a patient’s family myself and I get it.” (Nurse, Team member 06)