Memory ability after subarachnoid haemorrhage : Relatives' and patients' statements in relation to test results

• Aim: The aim of this study was to describe memory after a subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) from the perspective of relatives and patients in two cohorts and also to evaluate the application of relatives' statements as a tool in nursing care and rehabilitation, in order to support the patient.Background: Cognitive sequelae due to SAH are a large disability and may influence the adjustment to daily life. Supporting patients and relatives requires knowledge concerning the patients' memory both from the perspective of patients and relatives.Method: Eleven relatives and 11 patients (Cohort 1), 11 years after the onset of a SAH and 15 relatives and 15 patients (Cohort 2) 6 years after the onset of a SAH, participated in the study. Interview questions and memory tests were used to collect data.Findings: Problems with memory, including meta-memory problems regarding relatives' statements, were common. Relatives and patients stated patients' memory in a similar manner. However, patients' statements concerning their memory corresponded in higher degree with memory test results, in comparison with relatives' statements.Conclusions: Relatives' and patients' statements are useful as tools in nursing care and rehabilitation. However, from results showing meta-memory problems and that patients' statements concerning their memory corresponded better with memory test results (in comparison with relatives' statements), it is vital to offer patients memory tests in order to prevent complications in mutual family relationships.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Omvårdnad (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Nursing (hsv//eng)

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Neurologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Neurology (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Medical sciences

Medicin

Nursing

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