Predictors of quality of life in heart-transplant recipients in Taiwan

[[abstract]]OBJECTIVE: This correlational study sought to identify the predictors of quality of life in heart-transplant recipients in Taiwan. METHODS: One hundred and fifty-three patients were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected using 6 questionnaires: (1) a demographic questionnaire, (2) the Transplant Symptom Frequency and Symptom Distress Scale, (3) the Self-Efficacy of Exercise Scale, (4) a compliance questionnaire, (5) the Beck Depression Inventory, Short Form 13, and (6) the Medical Outcomes Short Form 36-Health Survey. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 17.0 software (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, IL). Data analysis included percentages, means, standard deviations, correlation coefficients, and forward regressions. RESULTS: Depression was an independent, and the strongest, predictor of quality of life. Self-perceived health status and self-perceived family support also predicted quality of life. Symptom distress level predicted the physical aspect of quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: Based on this understanding, an interdisciplinary team can initiate a needs assessment for these heart-transplant recipients, and develop an intervention to meet their needs