Education for Chemotherapy Patients' Kin: Effects on Family Health

Effect of Education for Relatives of Chemotherapy Patients on Family Health, Nutrition, and Psychological Well-Being

Aim: To evaluate the effects of structured education provided to the relatives of chemotherapy patients on family health, nutrition, and psychological well-being.

Methods: This randomized controlled study will be conducted with a parallel-group, pretest-posttest design at a university hospital in the northeastern region of Turkey. A total of 68 patient relatives are planned to participate (Intervention: 34, Control: 34). The training to be provided to the intervention group will cover topics such as self-efficacy, nutrition, and stress management. Data will be collected at three different time points (pretest, mid-test, posttest) using the Family Health Scale (FHS), the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS), and the Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWB). Statistical analyses will include chi-square tests, t-tests, and Pearson correlation coefficients.

Aim: This study will evaluate the effects of structured education provided to the relatives of patients undergoing chemotherapy on family health, nutritional habits, and levels of psychological well-being.

Methods: The study is designed as a randomized controlled trial with a parallel-group, pretest-posttest design. It is planned to be conducted at a university hospital located in the northeastern region of Turkey, with a total of 68 patient relatives participating (Intervention Group: n = 34, Control Group: n = 34). The training materials will be developed to cover topics such as self-efficacy, nutrition, and stress management. Data will be collected using a participant information form, the Family Health Scale (FHS), the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS), and the Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWB) at three time points: t0 (pretest), t1 (mid-test), and t2 (posttest). Statistical analyses will include chi-square tests, paired sample t-tests for repeated measures, and Pearson correlation coefficients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Caregiver (first-degree relative or emotional supporter) of a patient receiving chemotherapy.
• Age 18 years or older.
• Ability to read and understand Turkish.
• Provides care or emotional support to the chemotherapy patient.
• No chronic health conditions.
• Not receiving psychiatric treatment.
• No substance use.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of cognitive or sensory impairments.
• Failure to attend at least two education sessions (for intervention group).
• Pregnancy.
• Voluntary withdrawal from the study.