Relationship between Formal and Informal Caregivers at the Paediatric Ward of the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Relationships between caregivers could be coordinated or conflicted in the caregiving process. Coordinated relationships have been found to improve health outcomes, reduce stress attached to caregiving and improve patient satisfaction of health care quality. The Cape Coast Teaching Hospital has taken a step in boosting coordination between formal and informal caregivers by incorporating informal caregivers in the care delivery process by providing a mothers’ hostel. This study sought to explore the relationship between formal and informal caregivers at the Paediatric Ward of the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. The interpretivist paradigm was used and interviews and observation were used to explore how formal and informal caregivers relate at the Paediatric Ward of the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. Based on the conceptual framework of this study, the emerging trends from the data gathered were organised into three main themes namely: the caregiving activities of formal and informal caregivers; communication between formal and informal caregivers; and the role expectations and perceptions of formal and informal caregivers. The study found that the caregiving activities of formal and informal caregivers, their communication and their role expectations and perceptions determined both coordination and conflict between them. Interventions by health institutions, health professionals and individuals need to be directed towards boosting coordination between formal and informal caregivers at the hospitals.