Informal caregivers' perceptions of their health activities during home hospitalization

Objective: To understand the perceptions of informal caregivers with up to six months' experience about their health activities during home hospitalization. Method: This qualitative study was conducted through interviews with primary caregivers of people registered with the Home Care Service in a region of the Federal District of Brazil who had been admitted for up to six months. Data were collected between July and October 2022. The data were analyzed using Bardin's Thematic Content Analysis. Results: Three thematic categories were identified: health activities performed by caregivers, caregiver perspective on caring at home, and caregiver knowledge trajectory. Conclusion: The findings point to the need to implement a transition program from hospital to home care, as well as intersectoral actions and public policies that can provide a support network for caregivers and consider their individual needs.