The research utilized the descriptive qualitative method of research. Twenty (20) caregivers-relatives of inert patients were actively performing care for the inert patient serves as the participant of this study. The principal tool used in data gathering was an interview guide. This study was conducted from January 2004 to June 2005. These caregivers-relatives of the inter patients maybe a mother, father, daughter, son, husband, wife, sister, brother, aunt and uncle.
The problems encountered by the caregivers-relatives of inert patients in terms of physiological factors include body weakness (80%), fatigue/stress (70%) and weight loss (90%).On the other hand, the problems encountered by the caregivers-relatives of inert patients in terms of psycho-emotional factors include hopelessness/depressions (100%) and fear/anxiety (40%). The problems encountered by the caregivers-relatives of inert patient in terms of financial factors include cost of treatment and rehabilitation (100%) and insufficient financial resources (90%). The coping mechanisms utilized by the caregivers-relatives of inert patient include prayers (100%), Asking assistance from relatives (40%) taking food supplement (60%) and rest (60%).
The researchers, therefore, conclude that caregiver-relatives of inert patients encountered problems in terms of physiological factors is weight loss, as to psycho-emotional factors, they commonly encounter depression, and in terms of financial factors, which is the cost of treatment rehabilitation of the family member.
The researchers recommend that the caregivers-relatives should prioritize and organize task according to patient's immediate and long term needs and reduce discomfort as much as possible to alleviate patients from pain.
