Effectiveness of problem-solving technique in caring for family caregivers: a clinical trial study in an urban area of Catalonia (Spain).

Aims And Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of the problem-solving technique in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression among primary caregivers and to describe and evaluate the process carried out by nurses to find strengths and areas of improvement.

Background: In Spain, home care for the chronically ill patients and their family caregivers should be a priority in health and social policies due to the increase in ageing population and the progressive increase in dependent individuals. One of the areas involved is home-based nursing and counselling for family caregivers.

[Effectiveness of problem solving technique applied by nurses: decreased anxiety and depression in family caregivers].

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of Problem Solving Technique in reducing anxiety and depression, and increased perceived well-being in women family caregivers of chronic patients.

Design: A clinical trial FIELD OF STUDY: Health centres in Tarragona, Spain, during 2007-2011.

Participants: A sample 122 caregivers of patients in home care programs that met the inclusion criteria, were assigned to intervention or control group according to a simple random process.