Patients’ experiences of waiting for an organ transplant : A literature review

Background: Organ transplantation is seen as a treatment to save lives. There are great differences in the transplantation process between different countries. Patients have previously described the process of organ transplantation as restrictive and emotionally draining with an overhanging fear of death before transplant. Aim: The aim of this study was to describe patients’ experiences of waiting for organ transplantation. Method: This literature-based study was conducted with analysis of qualitative research to gain knowledge about the patients’ experiences. Analysis of the eleven articles was performed by using Friberg’s five-step method. Results: Two main themes and six subthemes emerged from the analysis. The main themes The need for support and information highlighted the patients need for support and adequate information from both family and health care professionals. This was seen as a way to handle the uncertainty that the waiting time could bring. The other main theme The time on the waiting list described that waiting for an organ transplantation could bring restrictions to their daily life. Patients described the time on the waiting list as uncertain and many thoughts about the donor arose. Also, hope about their future was prominent throughout the time on the waiting list. At times this hope could turn to despair. Conclusion: Waiting for an organ transplantation is a multifaceted experience. Support from family was considered crucial and therefore should be included when possible. Nurses are responsible for giving enough and appropriate information and support to the patients during their wait