Peer Support Intervention for Caregivers of Patients Undergoing HSCT

Caregivers play a vital role in recovery following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, caregiving can contribute to psychological distress and reduced quality of life (QOL). Additionally, HSCT caregivers report low self-efficacy and social support, protective factors which would otherwise help bolster their confidence in coping with the uncertainties and challenges of HSCT. Given the challenges and unmet psychosocial needs of HSCT caregivers, peer support interventions are poised to promote caregiver coping to address caregiver distress and quality of life concerns. With limited tailored peer support interventions, for HSCT caregivers, this study aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a peer support intervention (STEPP-Care) and examine its preliminary effects for improving QOL, caregiver burden, and psychological well-being compared to usual care in 90 caregivers of HSCT recipients.

Inclusion criteria

• Adult caregivers (≥18 years of age) of patients with hematologic malignancies who are undergoing autologous or allogeneic HSCT at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
• Is a relative or friend who is identified by the patient to be their caregiver.
• Ability to speak, read, and respond in English
• Has access to a phone.

Exclusion criteria

• Caregivers with acute or unstable psychiatric conditions or other cognitive conditions that the treating oncologist believes would prohibit informed consent or ability to adhere to study procedures.