The core of social function after solid organ transplantation

Abstract

Background: Social function is a key aspect of health-related quality of life after solid organ transplantation (SOT). The focus of this study was to report how solid organ-transplanted patients change their social function after transplantation.

Aim: To investigate the main concerns associated with social function after SOT and how solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) deal with these concerns.

Method: Twenty SOTRs, 13 men and 7 women, with a mean age of 54 years (range 22-75 years) and due for their first-year follow-up were included in this study. The informants had received various types of solid organs. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, which were recorded and transcribed verbatim for analysis by the method of grounded theory (GT) developed by Charmaz.

Result: The GT of this study describes the efforts by the 20 SOTRs to adapt socially in order to maintain their social functioning and leading a normal life. The efforts summaries a process wherein the generated GT is present through three main categories: deconstruction, restriction and reconstruction, showing various ways to socially adapt. Through this process, a clear path of transition through adaptation is evident, starting before transplantation and continues beyond the first year after transplantation.

Conclusion: Social functions improved through a process of adaptation during the first year after transplantation. Working and travelling were the two most important aspects of social function. All the informants emphasised the importance of regaining a normal life, which was the outcome of a successful adaptation.

Keywords: Charmaz; adaptation; grounded theory; organ transplantation; social function; transition.