Effect of Tele-Palliative Care Education Program on Family Caregiver Knowledge and Practice among Geriatric Patients with Prostate Cancer

Background: Prostate cancer is a prevalent condition among elderly men, often placing a significant burden on family caregivers. Tele-palliative care programs offer a promising approach to enhancing caregiver knowledge and skills. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of a tele-palliative care education program on family caregiver knowledge and caregiving practices among geriatric patients with prostate cancer. Subjects and Method: Design: A quasi-experimental one-group pre- and post-test design was utilized. Setting: The study was conducted at the Pain Clinic of the National Cancer Institute in Damanhour, Egypt, from September to December 2023. Subjects: Three hundred family caregivers were selected by using a convenience sampling technique. Tools: Data were collected through a pre-designed questionnaire assessing caregiver demographics, caregiving practices, and knowledge. Results: The intervention led to substantial improvements in caregiver knowledge and practices, as evidenced by significant increases in mean total knowledge and practice scores (p <0.001). Prior caregiving experience, employment status, and formal training were identified as significant predictors of knowledge and practice gains. Conclusion: Tele-palliative care education programs can effectively equip family caregivers with the tools necessary to provide high-quality care for geriatric patients with prostate cancer. Recommendations: The study recommends that healthcare systems implement strategies to ensure caregivers of individuals with chronic conditions have access to the requisite education and support to deliver high-quality care within the home environment.