A home health client has multiple sclerosis. In the last 6 months, his

A home health client has multiple sclerosis. In the last 6 months, his condition has deteriorated significantly. The home health nurse is concerned about the possibility of the spouse experiencing caregiver role strain.

Which of the following, if present, would the nurse expect to see or hear if this were the situation?
1. The home appears more unkempt and cluttered.
2. The spouse expresses feelings of anger.
3. The spouse reports decreased energy.
4. The spouse reports that she is learning how to manage finances.
5. The spouse expresses interest in religion as a support.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1,2,3
Rationale: Caregiver role strain occurs when caregivers experience physical, emotional, social, and financial burdens that can seriously jeopardize their own health and well-being. Signs of caregiver overload or strain include those identified in the answer.