Informal caregiving dynamics with a case study in blood and marrow transplantation.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To develop a definition of informal caregiving dynamics through a selective literature review and explore the proposed definition in the context of blood and marrow transplantation using a case study. DATA SOURCES Published articles. DATA SYNTHESIS Informal caregiving dynamics are commitment, expectations, and negotiation that move a dyadic informal caregiving relationship along an illness trajectory. CONCLUSIONS The proposed definition of informal caregiving dynamics is useful in explaining how an informal caregiving dyadic relationship develops and is sustained. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING Understanding the dynamics underlying informal caregiving relationships enables nurses to intervene effectively to develop and sustain these vital relationships. Elements of the concept require further clarification. Research to validate the accuracy of the concept is needed.