Conectar
To examine how mixed methods research has been applied in studies of family caregiving for stroke survivors, focusing on key methodological components (rationale, design types, integration strategies, and use of joint displays).
Methodological systematic review.
A systematic search of five databases yielded 17 studies. The extraction focused on mixed methods features (rationale, design, integration, joint displays), and quality was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.
PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO were searched for relevant studies published from 2010 to 2025.
The included studies addressed topics such as caregiver burden, coping, resilience, and intervention outcomes. Convergent and explanatory sequential designs predominated. Complementarity was the most frequent rationale for mixing methods. Integration occurred mainly through merging, with fewer instances of connecting or building. Three studies included joint displays to integrate the results.
Mixed methods research is increasingly applied in family caregiving. To advance the field, researchers should strengthen integration during analysis and results and improve transparency in reporting key design features.
Strengthening methodological rigour in mixed methods studies on stroke caregiving will improve the evidence base for nursing practice. Intentional and meaningful integration of qualitative and quantitative evidence can better inform effective interventions and support programs, ultimately enhancing care for stroke survivors and their families.
This review evaluates how mixed methods research is applied in family caregiving studies. It identifies significant methodological gaps, including unclear reporting of design and limited use of advanced integration techniques. The recommendations provide practical guidance for researchers to improve reporting and integration, yielding richer evidence to inform interventions and policies that support family caregivers.
The review followed the PRISMA 2021 guidelines for transparent reporting of systematic reviews.
No patient or public involvement.
To examine and define the concept of moral distress among family caregivers by identifying its key attributes, antecedents and consequences.
Concept analysis.
This study was guided by Walker and Avant's concept analysis framework. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies, with 12 articles included in this analysis.
PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus and PsycINFO databases were searched for articles published between February 2000 and May 2025.
Three defining attributes of moral distress in family caregivers were identified: self-directed negative emotions, internal conflict and feelings of powerlessness and helplessness. Antecedents included caregiving burden, role conflict, ethical dilemmas, complex decision-making and internal and external constraints. Consequences encompassed long-term health effects, social withdrawal, burnout and moral residue. These findings led to a conceptual definition of moral distress in family caregivers.
Moral distress in family caregivers is a significant and underrecognised issue that affects caregiver well-being and the quality of care they provide. This concept analysis offers a clear conceptual definition, providing a foundation for developing research instruments and interventions.
Healthcare professionals should recognise moral distress in family caregivers as a key factor impacting both caregiver well-being and patient care. Support through education, counselling and peer groups can reduce moral distress and foster more ethical, collaborative care environments.
This study addressed the lack of clarity surrounding moral distress in family caregivers. It identified key attributes, antecedents, and consequences, and developed a clear conceptual definition. These insights will inform research, practice and policy. The findings will benefit caregivers, improve patient care and support healthcare teams.
This study followed Walker and Avant's framework and employed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines in article selection.
No patient or public involvement.
FreshRSS 