Sickness Symptoms in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Scoping Review

Sickness symptoms (depressive symptoms, anxiety, and fatigue) are common among people with chronic illness, often presenting as a symptom cluster. Sickness symptoms persist in many patients with chronic kidney disease, even after kidney transplantation (KT); however, little is known about sickness symptom-induced burden in KT recipients. This scoping review synthesizes available evidence for sickness symptoms in KT recipients, including findings on symptom prevalence, predictors, outcomes, interrelationships, and clustering. Among 38 reviewed studies, none identified sickness symptoms as a cluster, but we observed interrelationships among the symptoms examined. Fatigue was the most prevalent sickness symptom, followed by anxiety and depressive symptoms. Predictors of these symptoms included demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors, and health-related quality of life was the most researched outcome. Future research should use common data elements to phenotype sickness symptoms, include biological markers, and employ sophisticated statistical methods to identify potential clustering of sickness symptoms in KT recipients.

A qualitative systematic review of anonymous/unspecified living kidney and liver donors' perspectives

OBJECTIVES & BACKGROUND

Anonymous live organ donors or unspecified donors are individuals willing to be organ donors for any transplant recipient with whom they have no biological or antecedent emotional relationship. Despite excellent recipient outcomes and the potential to help address organ scarcity, controversy surrounds the unconditional act of gifting one's organs to an unrelated recipient. This qualitative systematic review provides insights into the first-hand experiences, motivations, and challenges that unspecified donors face.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted on Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science database for qualitative literature regarding unspecified living donors' motivations and experiences in liver and kidney transplantation. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted to generate themes and supportive subthemes.

RESULTS

12 studies were included. The four major themes were (i) motivations, (ii) perception of risks, (iii) donor support, and (iv) benefits of donation. Unspecified donors demonstrated a deep sense of social responsibility but tended to underestimate health risks in favour of benefits for recipients. Despite the lack of emotional support from family and friends, the decision to donate was a resolute personal decision for donors. Majority benefitted emotionally and did not express regret.

CONCLUSION

This qualitative review bridges the gap in literature on unspecified living donor psychology and provides a comprehensive understanding of the decision-making matrix and experiences of donors.

Depression in transplantation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review and summarize the literature published between 1 January 2020 and 30 June 2022, on the prevalence, risk factors and impact of depression in transplant population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Depression is common in transplantation candidates and recipients, with a prevalence up to 85.8% in kidney recipients. Multiple studies have indicated after transplantation depression correlates with increased mortality and with higher healthcare utilization. Social risk factors for posttransplant depression include financial difficulties and unemployment, while less is understood about the biological substrate of depression in this population. There is evidence that dynamic psychotherapy is effective for depression in organ transplant recipients, while cognitive behavioral therapy or supportive therapy did not lead to improvement of depression in transplant recipients. For living organ donors, the rates of depression are similar to the general population, with financial factors and the clinical status of the recipient playing a significant role.

SUMMARY

Depression is a common finding in transplant population. More research is needed to understand the biological substrate and risk factors and to develop effective treatment interventions.

Are cultural or psychosocial factors associated with patient-reported outcomes at the conclusion of kidney transplant evaluation?

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplant evaluation (KTE) is a period marked by many stressors for patients, which may lead to poorer patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Research on the association of cultural and psychosocial factors with PROs during KTE is lacking, even though cultural and psychosocial variables may mitigate the relationship between acceptance status and PROs.

METHODS

Using a prospective cohort study of 955 adults referred for KTE, we examined whether cultural factors and psychosocial characteristics, assessed at the initiation of KTE, are associated with PROs at KTE completion, controlling for demographics and medical factors. Also, we analyzed whether these factors moderate the relationship between transplant acceptance status and PROs.

RESULTS

In multivariable regression models, a stronger sense of mastery was associated with higher physical and mental QOL. A stronger sense of self-esteem was associated with higher kidney-specific QOL. Depression was associated with a lower mental QOL, but only in those who were accepted for transplant. Having low levels of external locus of control was associated with better mental QOL in those who were not accepted for transplant. Higher anxiety was associated with poorer kidney-specific QOL among those who were not accepted for KT, but trust in physician was only associated with greater satisfaction in transplant clinic service for those who were accepted for KT.

CONCLUSIONS

Targeting interventions to increase patient mastery and external locus of control, and reduce depression and anxiety in patients undergoing kidney transplant evaluation may be useful approaches to improve their experience during this stressful period.

Waiting for kidney transplantation from deceased donors: Experiences and support needs during the waiting time -A qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to explore and describe patients' experiences of the transplantation process and the support they had received during the waiting time.

METHOD

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 patients currently waiting for kidney transplantation from deceased donors (n = 7) or recently having received kidney transplantation (n = 7). Interviews were transcribed, anonymized and analysed inductively using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Two themes and seven sub-themes were identified. The first theme, "Swaying between hope and despair" describes patients' perceptions of waiting for transplantation as a struggle, their expectations for life after the upcoming transplantation and experienced disappointments. The second theme, "Making your way through the waiting time", describes support, strategies and behaviours used to manage the waiting time.

CONCLUSION

Patients described life while waiting for kidney transplantation as challenging, involving unexpected events, not understanding the transplantation process and having unrealistic expectations on life after transplantation. They also described support, strategies and behaviours used, some of which led to unwanted consequences.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Patients waiting for kidney transplantation from deceased donors need continuous and easily available education, practical and emotional support to manage the waiting time. Transplantation specific education is also needed to facilitate preparation for transplantation and adjustment to life after transplantation.

Psychosocial Burden of Itch among Renal Transplant Recipients

Itch is the most common symptom of chronic dermatoses. Moreover, itch may be associated with systemic disorders. Chronic kidney disease—associated itch (CKD-aI) may affect up to 20% of renal transplant recipients (RTR). The aim of the study was to assess psychosocial burden of itch in RTR. The study was performed on a group of 129 RTR, out of which 54 (41.9%) experienced itch in the previous 3 days. A specially designed questionnaire assessing anxiety, depression, stigmatization, and quality of life was used. Results: Patients suffering from itch in the previous 3 days achieved significantly higher scores in GAD-7 (p < 0.001), BDI (p < 0.001), HADS total score (p < 0.001), HADS Depression (p = 0.004), and HADS Anxiety (p < 0.001). Severity of itch correlated positively with HADS, stigmatization scale, and GAD-7. Itch in RTR was associated with higher incidence of depression assessed with BDI (OR 3.7). Moreover, higher prevalence of anxiety was found among patients suffering from CKD-aI, assessed with HADS A and GAD-7 (OR 2.7 and OR 4.8, respectively) The results of our study clearly demonstrate that itch among RTR is a significant burden. Higher prevalence of depression and anxiety in this groups indicate the necessity of addressing itch relief as a part of holistic approach to patients after renal transplantation.

A qualitative exploration of the facilitators and barriers to self-management in kidney transplant recipients

Background

Understanding the behaviours that facilitate or impede one’s ability to self-manage is important to improve health-related outcomes in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Previous studies exploring the self-management experiences of KTRs have focused on specific tasks (e.g., medication adherence), age groups (e.g., adolescent or older recipients), or have been conducted outside of the UK where transferability of findings is unknown. Our study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of self-management in UK KTRs to identify facilitators and barriers associated with self-management tasks.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven KTRs. Topics explored included experiences of self-management tasks (diet, exercise, medications, stress management), perceived healthcare role, and future interventional approaches. Thematic analysis was used to identify and report themes.

Results

Eight themes were identified which were mapped onto the three self-management tasks described by Corbin and Strauss: medical, role and emotional management. Perceived facilitators to self-management were: gathering health-related knowledge, building relationships with healthcare professionals, creating routines within daily life, setting goals and identifying motivators, establishing support networks, and support from family and friends. Complexity of required treatment and adjusting to a new health status were perceived barriers to self-management.

Conclusions

Participants described the importance of collaborative consultations and continuity of care. Tailored interventions should identify individualised goals and motivators for participating in self-management. Education on effective strategies to manage symptoms and comorbidities could help alleviate KTRs’ perceived treatment burden. Family and peer support could emotionally support KTRs; however, managing the emotional burden of transplantation warrants more attention.

Graphic abstract

The Knowledge Assessment of Renal Transplantation (KART) 2.0: Development and Validation of CKD and Transplant Knowledge Scales

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Many individuals with kidney disease, particularly those belonging to racial and ethnic minority groups and whose primary language is not English, lack knowledge related to kidney disease symptoms, physiologic functions of the kidney, and benefits and risks of kidney transplantation. Valid instruments to assess patients' knowledge of CKD and kidney transplantation are needed.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

Using a sample of 977 patients with stages 3-5 CKD in the Kaiser Permanente health system, we developed the Knowledge Assessment of Renal Transplantation (KART) 2.0 instrument. We conducted cognitive interviews followed by item response theory (IRT) to reduce 48 candidate items. Construct validity was tested by examining differences in scores between patients who spent <1 and ≥1 hour receiving CKD and transplant education.

RESULTS

Cognitive interviews modified four items and omitted 11. IRT analyses resulted in two scales: the KART 2.0-Transplant Knowledge Scale (16 items; Cronbach's α=0.8) and the KART 2.0-CKD Knowledge Scale (nine items; Cronbach's α=0.79). Differential item functioning showed that the scales were unbiased to capture knowledge across self-identified race, primary language, CKD stage, and sex. Both scales distinguished patients who had spent <1 and ≥1 hour speaking with health professionals (effect size [ES]=0.33 [transplant], 0.54 [CKD]; P<0.001 for both), reading about kidney disease (ES=0.45 [transplant], 0.62 [CKD]; P<0.001), reading about kidney transplantation (ES=0.67 [transplant], 0.69 [CKD]; P<0.001), and reading about living donor kidney transplant (ES=0.76 [transplant], 0.62 [CKD]; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The KART 2.0 is a valid tool to assess patients' knowledge of CKD and kidney transplantation.

Risk Assessment and Management for Potential Living Kidney Donors: The Role of “Third-Party” Commission

Living kidney donation is the most common type of living-donor transplant. Italian guidelines allow the living donations from emotionally related donors only after clear and voluntary consent expressed by both the donor and the recipient involved. Living donation raises ethical and legal issues because donors voluntarily undergo a surgical procedure to remove a healthy kidney in order to help another person. According to the Italian standards, the assessment of living donor-recipient pair has to be conducted by a medical “third party”, completely independent from both the patients involved and the medical team treating the recipient. Starting from the Hospital “Città della Salute e della Scienza” of Turin (Italy) experience, including 116 living kidney donations, the Authors divided the evaluation process performed by the “Third-Party” Commission into four stages, with a particular attention to the potential donor. Living donation procedures should reflect fiduciary duties that healthcare providers have toward their patients, originating from the relationship of trust between physician and patient. In addition to that, the social implications are enormous if one considers the worldwide campaigns to promote public awareness about organ donation and transplantation, and to encourage people to register their organ donation decisions. The systematic process proposed here can be a tool that proactively reduces and controls the risks of coercion, organ trafficking, vitiated consent, insufficient weighting of donative choice, that could arise especially in donors involved in living kidney donation.

Combining transplant professional's psychosocial donor evaluation and donor self-report measures to optimise the prediction of HRQoL after kidney donation: an observational prospective multicentre study

OBJECTIVES

Living donor kidney transplantation is currently the preferred treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease. The psychosocial evaluation of kidney donor candidates relies mostly on the clinical viewpoint of transplant professionals because evidence-based guidelines for psychosocial donor eligibility are currently lacking. However, the accuracy of these clinical risk judgements and the potential added value of a systematic self-reported screening procedure are as yet unknown. The current study examined the effectiveness of the psychosocial evaluation by transplant professionals and the potential value of donor self-report measures in optimising the donor evaluation. Based on the stress-vulnerability model, the predictive value of predonation, intradonation and postdonation factors to impaired longer term health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of kidney donors was studied.

DESIGN

An observational prospective multicentre study.

SETTING

Seven Dutch transplantation centres.

PARTICIPANTS

588 potential donors participated, of whom 361 donated. Complete prospective data of 230 donors were available. Also, 1048 risk estimation questionnaires were completed by healthcare professionals.

METHODS

Transplant professionals (nephrologists, coordinating nurses, social workers and psychologists) filled in risk estimation questionnaires on kidney donor candidates. Furthermore, 230 kidney donors completed questionnaires (eg, on HRQoL) before and 6 and 12 months after donation.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

HRQoL, demographic and preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative health characteristics, perceived support, donor cognitions, recipient functioning and professionals risk estimation questionnaires.

RESULTS

On top of other predictors, such as the transplant professionals' risk assessments, donor self-report measures significantly predicted impaired longer term HRQoL after donation, particularly by poorer predonation physical (17%-28% explained variance) and psychological functioning (23%).

CONCLUSIONS

The current study endorses the effectiveness of the psychosocial donor evaluation by professionals and the additional value of donor self-report measures in optimising the psychosocial evaluation. Consequently, systematic screening of donors based on the most prominent risk factors provide ground for tailored interventions for donors at risk.

Depression, Quantified Medication Adherence, and Quality of Life in Renal Transplant Candidates and Recipients

Like patients with many chronic illnesses, ESRD patients experience psychological challenges with greater incidence of depression and reduced quality of life (QoL). A series of 139 transplant candidates' depression and QoL, and a subset of 82 candidates' medication adherence were monitored, revealing heterogenous patterns of depression and adherence and reduced QoL. Twenty-eight patients who received kidney transplants were re-evaluated 6 months post-transplant revealing mixed patterns. Mean depression and quantitated adherence decreased and QoL increased. Some patients improved whereas others declined in depression and adherence. Pre-transplant depression was negatively correlated with post-transplant adherence but positively correlated with post-transplant depression. Nevertheless, the ability to predict individuals' post-transplant adherence and depression, principal objectives of pre-transplant psychological evaluations, is limited. Consequently, it is important to provide periodic screening of ESRD patients for depression and adherence pre- and post-transplant as they reflect changing states, rather than static traits, with variable patterns across patients.

Prevalence of Mental Disorders in a German Kidney Transplant Population: Results of a KTx360°-Substudy

In patients after kidney transplantation (KTx) an increased rate of affective and anxiety disorders has been observed. Repeatedly, a relationship between mental health issues and increased morbidity and mortality in KTx recipients has been reported. However, information on the prevalence of mental disorders in KTx patients is scarce. As part of the structured multimodal follow-up program (KTx360°), mental disorders were examined in 726 patients after KTx through structured diagnostic interviews using the Mini-DIPS Open Access. Overall, 27.5% had a current and 49.2% a lifetime mental disorder. Only 14.5% with a current mental disorder reported to be in treatment. Affected patients were younger, more often female, reported more symptoms of anxiety and depression and less perceived social support. While comparable to the rate in general population samples, the prevalence of mental disorders should attract attention. The low treatment rate requires an improved identification of afflicted patients and provision of specialist treatment.ISRCTN registry, https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN29416382 , date of registry: 03.05.2017.

Employment after renal transplantation vs. the health locus of control and the quality of life

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the presented study was to compare the health locus of control (HLC) between employed and unemployed patients after kidney transplantation (KT), and to investigate the relationship between HLC and the quality of life (QoL).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 101 KT patients and the control group of 60 hemodialysis (HD) patients. The applied methods were: the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Questionnaire (MHLC), the WHO Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF), and a survey collecting information on the socio-demographic status and work experience.

RESULTS

Overall, 57.5% of KT patients were employed and 42.5% were unemployed. In the HD group, 25% were employed and 71% were unemployed, while 4% did not disclose their employment status. The unemployed KT patients, in comparison with the employed ones, presented a higher feeling of the impact of chance on their health (unemployed M±SD 23.68±6.59; employed M±SD 21.02±4.57) and a lower level of QoL on the Somatic Scale (unemployed Me = 14.00, IQR = 3.00; employed Me = 1450, IQR = 3.00) and the Environmental Scale (unemployed M±SD 15.39±2.83; employed M±SD 16.85±3.24). In the employed KT group, the Internal Control Scale (MHLC) correlated with all QoL scales (the Somatic Scale: r = 0.292, p = 0.036; the Psychological Scale: r = 0.455, p = 0.001; the Social Scale: r = 0.304, p = 0.029; and the Environmental Scale: r = 0.307, p = 0.027). In the unemployed KT group, the Internal Control Scale (MHLC) correlated significantly with the Somatic Scale (r = 0.396, p = 0.013) and the Psychological Scale (r = 0.374, p = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

The employed KT patients have a higher level of independence, with results indicating a strong internal type. Additionally, the working patients assess their QoL better, both in terms of their health condition and the organization of satisfying environment. The obtained knowledge about the psychological characteristics of KT patients may be useful for the occupational activation programs and psycho-education for those with weaker predispositions. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(1):53-62.

Renal recipients' knowledge and self-efficacy during first year after implementing an evidence based educational intervention as routine care at the transplantation clinic

BACKGROUND

Following an implementation plan based on dynamic dialogue between researchers and clinicians, this study implemented an evidence-based patient education program (tested in an RCT) into routine care at a clinical transplant center. The aim of this study was to investigate renal recipients' knowledge and self-efficacy during first year the after the intervention was provided in an everyday life setting.

METHODS

The study has a longitudinal design. The sample consisted of 196 renal recipients. Measurement points were 5 days (baseline), 2 months (T1), 6 months (T2), and one-year post transplantation (T3). Outcome measures were post-transplant knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-perceived general health.

RESULTS

No statistically significant changes were found from baseline to T1, T2, and T3. Participants' levels of knowledge and self-efficacy were high prior to the education program and did not change throughout the first year post transplantation.

CONCLUSION

Renal recipients self-efficacy and insight in post-transplant aspects seem to be more robust when admitted to the hospital for transplantation compared to baseline observations in the RCT study. This may explain why the implemented educational intervention did not lead to the same positive increase in outcome measures as in the RCT. This study supports that replicating clinical interventions in real-life settings may provide different results compared to results from RCT's. In order to gain a complete picture of the impacts of an implemented intervention, it is vital also to evaluate results after implementing findings from RCT-studies into everyday practice.

Factors associated with health-related quality of life in kidney transplant recipients in Korea

Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of kidney transplant recipients is an outcome evaluation after kidney transplants. Therefore, we investigated the associations among perceived health status, social support, self-determination, post-traumatic growth, and kidney transplant recipients' HRQOL. This study involved a descriptive, self-report survey of 163 kidney transplant recipients visiting an outpatient solid organ transplant center in South Korea. Participants' general and transplant characteristics, perceived health status, post-traumatic growth, social support, self-determination, and HRQOL were collected. Data were statistically analyzed using the software SPSS version 25.0. HRQOL showed statistically significant positive correlation with perceived health status (r = .56, p < .001), post-traumatic growth (r = .18, p = .022), social support (r = .25, p = .002), and self-determination (r = .36, p < .001). The factors affecting HRQOL were perceived health status (β = 0.47, p < 0.001), post-transplant occupation (β = 0.17, p = 0.009), and income source (β = -0.13, p = 0.046). The explanatory power of these variables was 34.8% (F = 28.81, p < 0.001). In the subdomains of HRQOL, the factors influencing HRQOL of mental component summary were perceived health status (β = 0.45, p < 0.001), self-determination (β = 0.27, p < 0.001), and education level (β = 0.18, p = 0.006). The explanatory power of these variables was 34.8% (F = 28.81, p < 0.001). To promote the HRQOL of kidney transplant recipients, an institutional system to assist kidney transplant recipients in returning to work needs to be developed. Additionally, creating an environment that allows kidney transplant recipients to act with self-determination, and developing intervention programs that can enhance self-determination will contribute to enhancing the HRQOL of kidney transplant recipients.

Willingness to pay for kidney transplantation among chronic kidney disease patients in Ghana

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplantation is the preferred treatment for patients with end stage renal disease. However, it is largely unavailable in many sub-Sahara African countries including Ghana. In Ghana, treatment for end stage renal disease including transplantation, is usually financed out-of-pocket. As efforts continue to be made to expand the kidney transplantation programme in Ghana, it remains unclear whether patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) would be willing to pay for a kidney transplant.

AIM

The aim of the study was to assess CKD patients' willingness to pay for kidney transplantation as a treatment option for end stage renal disease in Ghana.

METHODS

A facility based cross-sectional study conducted at the Renal Outpatient clinic and Dialysis Unit of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital among 342 CKD patients 18 years and above including those receiving haemodialysis. A consecutive sampling approach was used to recruit patients. Structured questionnaires were administered to obtain information on demographic, socio-economic, knowledge about transplant, perception of transplantation and willingness to pay for transplant. In addition, the INSPIRIT questionnaire was used to assess patients' level of religiosity and spirituality. Contingent valuation method (CVM) method was used to assess willingness to pay (WTP) for kidney transplantation. Logistic regression model was used to determine the significant predictors of WTP.

RESULTS

The average age of respondents was 50.2 ± 17.1 years with most (56.7% (194/342) being male. Overall, 90 out of the 342 study participants (26.3%, 95%CI: 21.7-31.3%) were willing to pay for a kidney transplant at the current going price (≥ $ 17,550) or more. The median amount participants were willing to pay below the current price was $986 (IQR: $197 -$1972). Among those willing to accept (67.3%, 230/342), 29.1% (67/230) were willing to pay for kidney transplant at the prevailing price. Wealth quintile, social support in terms of number of family friends one could talk to about personal issues and number of family members one can call on for help were the only factors identified to be significantly predictive of willingness to pay (p-value < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The overall willingness to pay for kidney transplant is low among chronic kidney disease patients attending Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Patients with higher socio-economic status and those with more family members one can call on for help were more likely to pay for kidney transplantation. The study's findings give policy makers an understanding of CKD patients circumstances regarding affordability of the medical management of CKD including kidney transplantation. This can help develop pricing models to attain an ideal poise between a cost effective but sustainable kidney transplant programme and improve patient access to this ultimate treatment option.

Difficulties and Coping Strategies of Kidney-transplant Recipients During Their Dark Postoperative Recovery Stage After Returning Home

INTRODUCTION

Kidney Transplantation (KT) is the best treatment for end-stage renal disease to prolong patients' lives. To improve patients' postoperative survival rate and quality of life, postoperative care at home is vital. We explored the difficulties faced and coping strategies used by KT recipients during their dark postoperative recovery stage at home.

METHODS

This qualitative, exploratory study used a purposive sample, which was obtained from a leading medical center in Taiwan. We used a semi-structured interview guide to collect data through in-depth, face-to-face interviews. Data were content analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifty individuals were approached and agreed to participate (30 men, 20 women). Participants' post-KT timeframe ranged from 2 to 28 years. Seven difficulties were reported: 1. physical discomfort and treatment side-effects; 2. concern about the impact of transplant failure; 3. uncertainty about the future; 4. unbearable economic pressure; 5. concerns about becoming a family burden; 6. feeling that life lacks a purpose; and 7. feeling isolated. Coping strategies included 1. seeking assistance from health care professionals, 2. thinking positively, 3. changing one's lifestyle, 4. setting goals to divert attention, 5. seeking psychological, and 6. seeking spiritual support.

CONCLUSIONS

By elucidating KT recipients' adaptability and coping strategies, we hope to improve their quality of life at home. Health care professionals should be aware of the difficulties faced by patients during their dark postoperative recovery stage and promote effective coping strategies. This study informs future research and has implications concerning the effective coordination of transplant medical teams.

Living or deceased-donor kidney transplant: the role of psycho-socioeconomic factors and outcomes associated with each type of transplant

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplant improves patients' survival and quality of life. Worldwide, concern about the equality of access to the renal transplant wait-list is increasing. In Iran, patients have the choice to be placed on either the living or deceased-donor transplant wait-list.

METHODS

This was a prospective study performed on 416 kidney transplant recipients (n = 217 (52.2%) from living donors and n = 199 (47.8%) from deceased donors). Subjects were recruited from four referral kidney transplant centers across Tehran, Iran, during 2016-2017. The primary outcome was to identify the psycho-socioeconomic factors influencing the selection of type of donor (living versus deceased). Secondary objective was to compare the outcomes associated with each type of transplant. The impact of psycho-socioeconomic variables on selecting type of donor was evaluated by using multiple logistic regression and the effect of surgical and non-surgical variables on the early post-transplant creatinine trend was assessed by univariate repeated measure ANOVA.

RESULTS

Based on standardized coefficients, the main predictors for selecting living donor were academic educational level (adjusted OR = 3.25, 95% CI: 1.176-9.005, p = 0.023), psychological status based on general health questionnaire (GHQ) (adjusted OR = 2.46, 95% CI: 1.105-5.489, p = 0.028), and lower monthly income (adjusted OR = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.242-3.916, p = 0.007). The waiting time was substantially shorter in patients who received kidneys from living donors (p < 0.001). The early post-transplant creatinine trend was more desirable in recipients of living donors (β = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.16-1.44, p-value = 0.014), patients with an ICU stay of fewer than five days (β = - 0.583, 95% CI: - 0.643- -0.522, p-value = < 0.001), and those with less dialysis duration time (β = 0.016, 95% CI: 0.004-0.028, p-value = 0.012). Post-operative surgical outcomes were not different across the two groups of recipients (p = 0.08), however, medical complications occurred considerably less in the living-donor group (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Kidney transplant from living donors was associated with shorter transplant wait-list period and better early outcome, however, inequality of access to living donors was observed. Patients with higher socioeconomic status and higher level of education and those suffering from anxiety and sleep disorders were significantly more likely to select living donors.

Level of Life Quality in Heart and Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Multicenter Study

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of the researchers was to determine the level of life quality among heart and kidney transplant recipients depending on the time and type of the transplant.

METHODS

The study was conducted using standardized questionnaires: the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey, Life Orientation Test-Revised, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. The study included 146 recipients (109 heart transplant recipients and 37 kidney transplant recipients) from 1 to 26 years after the transplantation surgery (mean 9 years).

RESULTS

The mean age of the study group was 52 years. The mean time since organ transplantation was 10 years for heart transplantation and 4.3 years for kidney transplantation. The study group obtained a slightly lower score for quality of life compared to the general population. In the Physical Component Summary (PCS), the study participants obtained the highest mean for the domain bodily pain (47.6), while the lowest score was in the domain role physical (41.82). As for the Mental Component Summary (MCS), the highest mean was obtained for the domain vitality (50.57), whereas the lowest one was for the domain role emotional (43.38). In 33% of the participants, risk of depression was identified. Statistically significant differences were observed depending on the type of the transplanted organ in the PCS for the domains general health, physical functioning, and bodily pain and the MCS for role emotional and social functioning. The statistically significant predictors for the PCS domain were the type of transplanted organ, recipients' age, and occurrence of anxiety. In turn, the predictor for the MCS was the occurrence of depression.

CONCLUSIONS

The quality of life (QOL) assessment varies between kidney and heart transplant recipients. The QOL is determined by the recipients' age and the occurrence of anxiety and depression. The obtained QOL assessment results are slightly lower than those in the general population.

Pre-transplant evaluation completion for Black/African American renal patients: Two theoretical frameworks

OBJECTIVE

Black/African Americans (B/AA) are less likely to complete the pre-transplant evaluation for kidney transplantation despite higher prevalence rates of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). To better understand the barriers and motivators to completing the evaluation process, two qualitative studies were conducted to categorize and elucidate the relationships between these factors.

METHODS

In Phase I, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a stratified purposeful sample of transplant professionals (N = 23). Focus groups were conducted during Phase II with a purposeful sample of B/AA patients (N = 30).

RESULTS

Thematic analyses assessed using grounded theory revealed a multitude of factors at individual and systemic levels, including health and informational/educational-related factors. Two comprehensive theoretical frameworks, a socio-ecological model of barriers and a model of motivators are presented. Medical mistrust is an example of a community factor identified as impeding completion rates. Systemic motivators included compressed time for testing and fewer intervals between doctor's appointments.

CONCLUSIONS

This study offers a structure for understanding impediments to and facilitators of pre-transplant evaluation completion as seen through the eyes of both B/AA ESRD patients seeking transplant and the providers who work with them.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Recommendations for intervention and systemic changes to narrow health disparities are discussed.

The correlation of patients' anxiety after a liver or kidney transplantation with functional and self-reported work ability

Organ transplantation has become the treatment of choice for end-stage organ failure, including renal and liver failure. The benefits of patient employment after transplantation are numerous, but factors determining the ability to work among these patients are not clearly defined. The growing interest in these factors has strong practical implications for organizations creating vocational rehabilitation programs. Given the interconnection between psychological and physical functioning in patients after transplantation, the present study examined the impact of anxiety on vocational rehabilitation and its relationship with functional tests. A total of 100 patients after liver or kidney transplantation underwent functional tests, including the 6-minute walking test and 30-second chair stand test (30"CST), and psychological tests, specifically the Inventory of Physical Activity Objectives, Work Ability Index, and State-Train Anxiety Inventory. Working ability was affected by psychological factors. State and trait anxiety exhibited inverse relationships with subjective readiness to occupational activity (P < .001, r = -.59 and P < .001, r = -.56, respectively). The level of anxiety was negatively related to the results of the 30"CST. State-Train Anxiety Inventory, State Anxiety subscale and State-Train Anxiety Inventory, State-Trait Anxiety subscale vs 30"CST: P < .001, r = -.43 P < .001, r = -.44). Thus, state and trait anxiety influence perceived work ability and partially functional status. These observations may indicate the potential benefits of including psychologists in interdisciplinary teams for physical and especially vocational rehabilitation of patients after liver or kidney transplantation.

'You have got a foreign body in there': renal transplantation, unexpected mild-to-moderate distress and patients' support needs: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVE

To explore why transplant patients experience unexpected mild-to-moderate distress and what support they may need.

DESIGN

Qualitative study using individual in-depth interviews.

SETTING

Four National Health Service (NHS) Trusts in the Midlands, UK.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifteen renal transplant patients meeting the criteria for mild-to-moderate distress from their responses to emotion thermometers.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Identification of the reasons for distress and support options acceptable to renal transplant patients.

RESULTS

Three themes were interpreted from the data: 'I am living with a "foreign body" inside me', 'why am I distressed?' and 'different patients want different support'. Following their transplant, participants felt that they should be happy and content, but this was often not the case. They described a range of feelings about their transplant, such as uncertainty about the lifespan of their new kidney, fear of transplant failure or fear of the donor having health conditions that may transfer to them. A few experienced survivors' guilt when others they had met at the dialysis unit had not received a transplant or because someone had died to enable them to receive the transplant. No longer having regular contact with the renal unit made participants feel isolated. Some participants did not initially attribute the source of their distress to their transplant. Participants' preferred support for their distress and their preferences about who should deliver it varied from peer support to seeing a psychologist.

CONCLUSIONS

Raising the issue of post-transplant mild-to-moderate distress with patients and encouraging them to think about and plan coping strategies pretransplant may prove beneficial for the patient and healthcare provider. Patients should be able to choose from a variety of support options.

Kidney Donation Withdrawal and Related Factors Among the Potential Donors of Living Kidney Transplant

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to discuss the reasons for kidney donation withdrawal and related factors among the potential donors of living kidney transplant.

METHODS

This study was conducted in outpatient departments with purposive sampling. Potential donors received relevant examinations and completed questionnaires when they would donate their kidneys for living related kidney transplant. Researchers tracked the final decision of potential donors. The structured questionnaire included basic data, psychosocial adjustment to illness scale, and decisional conflict scale.

RESULTS

A total of 53 potential donors participated in this study, 46 of whom completed the kidney donation surgery (86.6%). The factors related to the final decision of kidney donation or kidney donation withdrawal included self-ranking health condition, value clarity, feeling supported in decision making, and overall decisional conflict.

CONCLUSION

Organ transplant teams should conduct a complete physical and psychological assessment of potential donors, provide information and support, and assist potential donors to clarify their true values and willingness to undergo kidney donation. Thus, each potential donor can decide to donate in true accordance with their willingness.

Exploration of symptom experience in kidney transplant recipients based on symptoms experience model

PURPOSE

Kidney transplant recipients suffer from a variety of symptoms, and symptom management is crucial in improving their quality of life (QOL). Accordingly, this study aims to identify the symptoms experienced by kidney transplant recipients and examine the relationship amongst antecedents, symptom experience and QOL of recipients in China.

METHODS

A total of 300 kidney transplant recipients were investigated in one of the most first-rate hospitals in China by asking them to fill out a self-designed general questionnaire, the Symptom Experience Scale, the Sense of Coherence Scale (Chinese version), the Revised Life Orientation Test (Chinese version) and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (Chinese version).

RESULTS

Kidney transplant recipients experienced multiple symptoms that were frequent, severe and bothersome. The final model showed significant consistency with the data. In the QOL model, post-transplant time, complications, immunosuppressive agents and sense of coherence explained 30.7% of the variance of symptom experience. Moreover, habitual residence, economic burden, post-transplant time, kidney function, optimism and symptom experience accounted for 70.6% of the variance on QOL.

CONCLUSIONS

We can explain the relationship between antecedents, symptom experience and QOL amongst Chinese kidney transplant recipients by using Symptoms Experience Model. Clinicians and caregivers can manage the recipient's symptoms during follow-up from psychological, physical and medication management perspectives. Improving sense of coherence, maintaining optimism and managing symptoms are essential for enhancing QOL.