THROUGH MOTHERS ’ EYES: THE LIVED EXPERIENCE OF CARING FOR A CHILD WHO HAS UNDERGONE AND RECOVERED FROM A LIVER TRANSPLANTATION

ii Paediatric liver transplantation is a complicated and costly procedure. It also has the potential to be life-changing for the child and family. Paediatric liver transplantation commenced in New Zealand in July 2001. Approximately six to eight New Zealand children require liver transplantation annually. International survival rates of children receiving a liver transplant have increased in association with effective drug therapy and technological advances, though the children experience varying levels of wellbeing. Children are discharged relatively quickly following their major surgery. Upon discharge the child is assessed to be well, exhibits satisfactory liver function and the social situation at home is assessed to be conducive to their ongoing care. On discharge the child remains under the spotlight of health care workers. Monitoring reduces as the child’s condition improves. The child is only seen by health professionals in outpatient appointments or if admitted back to the ward. The clos