Unveiling the Psychosocial Impact: Pediatric Organ Transplantation and Posttraumatic Stress Disorders: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objectives: This systematic review delves into the intricate relationship between pediatric organ transplantation and posttraumatic stress disorder, shedding light on interventions crucial for addressing the psychosocial well-being of young transplant recipients. This review of the multifaceted nature of posttraumatic stress disorder in the context of pediatric transplantation examined the effects of transplant on the mental health of recipients. We aimed to review studies on posttraumatic stress disorder among pediatric patients who have had or were waiting for organ transplant and to systematically analyze the results of these studies.

Materials and methods: This systematic review was conducted by retrospectively searching PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Cochrane electronic databases using the keywords "pediatric kidney transplantation," or "pediatric liver transplantation," or "pediatric heart transplantation," and "posttraumatic stress disorders." Descriptive studies were included if they met the association between posttraumatic stress disorder and pediatric organ transplant recipients.

Results: From 267 articles, 5 articles were included in the systematic review. Posttraumatic stress disorder was shown to be more common in pediatric transplant recipients. Rate of low-level posttraumatic stress disorder ranged from 9.2% to 85.2%, whereas rate of high-level posttraumatic stress disorder ranged from 13.1% to 22.6%.

Conclusions: This review highlighted the imperative need to recognize and address the psychosocial effects of pediatric organ transplantation, with a specific focus on posttraumatic stress disorder. By incorporating comprehensive mental health care into the transplant journey, psychiatric nurses can contribute to the overall well-being of young recipients and their families, ensuring that the transformative power of organ transplant extends beyond mere physical survival to encompass psychological resilience and recovery. By acknowledging and addressing the emotional dimensions of the transplant journey, nurses can contribute to the well-being of recipients, ensuring a more holistic and resilient recovery.