Long-term breathlessness is a debilitating symptom that affects people's quality of life [1]. When it limits everyday activities [2], social isolation and greater physical dependence on others can also occur [3]. Caregivers (i.e. family/friends who provide care/support to people with long-term breathlessness) experience significant burden due to their caregiving role. Living in a constant state of alertness and unpredictability, with increased responsibilities in the relationship and at home, can affect their mental and physical health and increase social isolation [3, 4]. Clinicians’ lack of acknowledgment or support may also add to their burden and minimise any positive aspects of caregiving [4]. A better understanding of factors associated with caregiver burden is critical for developing targeted, person-centred support for caregivers of people with long-term breathlessness. This study aimed to explore which caregiver or patient factors may be associated with burden for caregivers of people with long-term breathlessness and COPD.

长期呼吸困难是一种使人衰弱的症状，影响人们的生活质量[1]。当日常活动受到限制时 [2]，也会发生社会孤立和对他人更大的身体依赖 [3]。护理人员（即为长期呼吸困难的人提供护理/支持的家人/朋友）由于其护理角色而承受着巨大的负担。生活在持续的警觉和不可预测的状态中，人际关系和家庭中的责任增加，会影响他们的身心健康并增加社会孤立感[3, 4]。临床医生缺乏认可或支持也可能会增加他们的负担，并最大限度地减少护理的积极方面[4]。更好地了解与护理人员负担相关的因素对于为长期呼吸困难患者的护理人员提供有针对性的、以人为本的支持至关重要。本研究旨在探讨哪些护理人员或患者因素可能与长期呼吸困难和慢性阻塞性肺病患者的护理人员的负担有关。