BACKGROUND: There are no previously known studies on the effects of orthopedic @entity130 on informal caregivers despite rich literature in other areas of caregiving. In this prospective study, we characterize personal and socioeconomic impact on orthopedic @entity130 caregivers. METHODS: Ninety-nine subjects were given the Caregiver Burden Scale and an original survey measuring emotional, employment, and socioeconomic burden. Demographic, @entity1 injury, and treatment data were also collected. RESULTS: Seventy percent of caregivers were female family members of the @entity1 . Fifty-four percent experienced substantial disruption to social life and emotional stress. Fifty-one percent spent more than 21 hrs/wk caregiving postinjury. Before/after injury time spent caring for the @entity1 was statistically significant (p < 0.01). Many caregivers experienced employment stress; 8% quit their jobs. Before/after injury employment stress was statistically significant (p < 0.01). Caregivers also expressed considerable financial stress. CONCLUSIONS: Socioeconomic impacts related to caregiving experiences extend beyond the clinical care of the @entity1 with caregivers facing extensive stress, financial drain, and employment difficulties. Understanding the complex nature of caring for orthopedic @entity1 may assist in connecting @entity1 and caregivers to the appropriate services and further improve @entity1 outcomes.

XXXX care: the lost providers.

@entity1 :: ('9606', 'Species') :: ['patients', 'patient'] @entity130 :: ('MESH:D014947', 'Disease') :: ['trauma']
@entity130 :: (MESH:D014947,Disease) :: ['Hidden burdens of orthopedic injury']
