1 Original Article Journal of Health Science and Medical Research J HSMR Caring for Thai Traumatic Brain Injury Survivors in a Transitional Period: What Are the Barriers? Duangsuda Siripituphum, M.N.S. 1 , Praneed Songwathana, Ph.D. 2 , Natenapha Khupantavee, Ph.D. 2 , Ishan Williams, Ph.D. 3 1 Faculty of Nursing, 2 Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand. 3 School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Virginia, 22903-0782, USA. Received 20 June 2019 l Revised 4 November 2019 l Accepted 6 November 2019 l Published online 9 December 2019 Abstract: Objective: We aimed to explore the situations and experiences of Thai traumatic brain injury (TBI) caregivers and nurses who care for TBI patients during their transition from hospital to home. Material and Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted in a tertiary hospital, in Songkhla province, Thailand. Five TBI family caregivers and nine nurses, who cared for TBI patients from admission to discharge, were selected for in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Reviews of existing documents related to caring for someone during a transition period; such as: the caregiver’s booklet manual, nurse’s guideline, discharge education, and the service plan were also analyzed. Content analysis was used to explore caring for someone during a TBI situation, within the Thai context. Results: The fndings revealed six main barriers in the current care system for TBI caregivers and nurses. These included: (1) inadequate discharge teaching information, (2) less time in caregiver’s supervision and support, (3) lack of a comprehensive discharge plan, (4) lack of coordination and communication in follow-up care, (5) less confdence in providing care without support at home, and (6) poor availability of resources and time for consultation. Conclusion: Caregivers require more information and supportive care in order to enhance their adaptation in taking care of TBI patients in the long term. Developing a tele-nursing based caregiver transitional support program among TBI caregivers is suggested. Keywords: caregiver, traumatic brain injury, transitional support program Contact: Duangsuda Siripituphum, M.N.S. Faculty of Nursing, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand. E-mail: Duangsuda.wc@gmail.com J Health Sci Med Res 2020;38(...):............... doi: 10.31584/jhsmr.202076 www.jhsmr.org