"Organ transplantation was a second chance given to me": a qualitative study of the experiences of solid organ transplantation patients

TL;DR

This study explores the experiences and challenges faced by organ transplant patients in their recovery and daily life.

Contribution

The study identifies key themes like returning to daily life and post-transplant difficulties through qualitative analysis.

Findings

Patients face physiological issues and fear of rejection after transplantation.

Lack of social support is a common issue during the transplantation process.

Quality of life improves in the long term despite initial challenges.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to qualitatively examine the needs of patients undergoing organ transplantation.

The sample of the study consisted of 17 patients. Data were evaluated using Colaizzi's seven-stage content analysis method.

Two themes such as returning to daily life after organ transplantation and difficulties experienced after organ transplantation were determined.

Individuals experienced physiological problems and fear of rejection after organ transplantation. Moreover, patients who experienced rejection fell into despair. However, their quality of life increases in the long term. Besides, individuals could not receive social support during transplantation.