Conway A, Schadewaldt V, Clark R, Ski C, Thompson DR, Doering L. The psychological experiences of adult heart transplant recipients: a systematic review and meta-summary of qualitative findings.
Heart Lung 2013;
42:449-55. [PMID:
24035493 DOI:
10.1016/j.hrtlng.2013.08.003]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Revised: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Psychosocial factors and physical health are associated with increased psychological distress post-heart transplant. Integrating findings from qualitative studies could highlight mechanisms for how these factors contribute to psychological well-being, thus aiding the development of interventions.
OBJECTIVE
To integrate qualitative findings regarding adult heart transplant recipients experiences, such as their emotions, perceptions and attitudes.
METHODS
A systematic review and meta-summary were conducted. Data from seven studies were categorized into 16 abstracted findings.
RESULTS
The most prominent finding across the studies related to recipients' perceptions of the importance of social support. Other prominent findings related to factors that promoted psychological well-being, such as faith, optimism and sense of control.
CONCLUSIONS
Psychological well-being may be improved by enhancing perceived control over health and daily life, promoting an optimistic outlook by facilitating access to social support from other heart transplant recipients and ensuring post-transplant recipient-caregiver partnerships adequately support the transition back to independence.
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