Family Perspectives on Early Stroke Recognition: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Nicholas Adi Perdana Susanto Susanto; Gian Lisuari Adityasiwi Adityasiwi; Nathan Agwin Khenda Khenda; Ellysa Okky Gusma Gusma; Hana Kristina Kristina

doi:10.24843/mifi.000001794

Authors

Nicholas Adi Perdana Susanto Susanto STIKES Bethesda Yakkum Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia Author https://orcid.org/0009-0008-3984-5621
Gian Lisuari Adityasiwi Adityasiwi STIKES Bethesda Yakkum Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia Author https://orcid.org/0009-0008-3757-6376
Nathan Agwin Khenda Khenda STIKES Bethesda Yakkum Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia Author https://orcid.org/0009-0004-2983-9712
Ellysa Okky Gusma Gusma STIKES Bethesda Yakkum Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia Author
Hana Kristina Kristina STIKES Bethesda Yakkum Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24843/mifi.000001794

Keywords:

Stroke, Caregivers, Early Diagnosis, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Qualitative Research

Abstract

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide. Delays in hospital presentation frequently occur due to limited family recognition of early symptoms, particularly during the critical therapeutic window.

Objective: This study aimed to explore family knowledge, responses, and caregiving practices related to early stroke recognition.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using in-depth interviews with seven family caregivers of stroke patients admitted to a private hospital in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling after the patients’ conditions had stabilized. Data saturation was achieved by the fifth participant. Interviews were conducted in a private setting, lasted 30–45 minutes, and were audio-recorded and supported by field notes. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis based on Braun and Clarke’s framework with the assistance of NVivo software.

Results: Three major themes emerged: (1) misinterpretation of early stroke symptoms, (2) delayed response influenced by symptom normalization and reliance on visible neurological deficits, and (3) caregiving challenges and unmet educational needs. Most participants initially interpreted symptoms such as vomiting, dizziness, and weakness as minor conditions, resulting in delayed hospital presentation, frequently exceeding 24 hours after onset.

Conclusion: Family caregivers demonstrate limited awareness of early stroke symptoms, contributing to delayed treatment and inadequate preparedness for post-stroke care. Structured and culturally appropriate educational interventions, particularly visual-based media, are needed to improve early recognition and caregiving capacity.