PERCEIVED EFFECTS OF PROLONGED HOSPITALIZATION ON TERMINALLY ILL PATIENT RELATIVES IN STATE SPECIALIST HOSPITAL MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

Prolonged hospitalization of terminally ill patients has a profound impact on their relatives, affecting their physical, psychological, social, and financial well-being. In Borno State, Nigeria, these challenges are compounded by socioeconomic and healthcare infrastructure limitations. Aims: This study aimed to explore the perceived effects of prolonged hospitalization on the relatives of terminally ill patients at the State Specialist Hospital Maiduguri, focusing on physical, psychological, social, and financial dimensions. Methodology: A phenomenological research design was adopted. Twelve participants were selected using purposive sampling, and data were collected through in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data, ensuring a deep understanding of caregivers experiences. Results: The study identified four major themes: (1) physical strain, including sleep disturbances and self-care deficits: (2) psychological effects, such as anticipated grief, anxiety, and depression: (3) social impacts, like reduced social connections and withdrawal from activities, and (4) financial burdens, including high out-of-pocket costs and income loss. Conclusion: Relatives of terminally ill patients experience significant multifaceted challenges during prolonged hospitalizations. These findings emphasize the need for targeted support systems, including financial aid, psychological counseling, and improved healthcare policies, to alleviate caregiver burden and improve their quality of life