Identification of Psychosocial Issues in Pediatric Patients Undergoing or Waiting for Organ Transplant: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objectives: Despite increased rates of survival, pediatric organ transplant is characterized by clinical complexities and psychosocial challenges. Understanding and addressing the psychosocial issues inherent in this population are crucial for optimizing their overall well-being and transplant outcomes. In this systematic review, we thus aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the psychosocial issues encountered by pediatric patients undergoing or awaiting organ transplant.

Materials and methods: This systematic review was conducted by retrospectively searching PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane electronic databases using the keywords "pediatric kidney transplantation" or "pediatric liver transplantation" or "pediatric heart transplantation" and "psychosocial problems" or "psychosocial issues" or "psychosocial outcomes" or "psychosocial needs." The literature review resulted in 3746 initial studies, with 6 studies included in this systematic review.

Results: Examination of psychosocial problems experienced by pediatric organ transplant recipients in included studies showed factors such as depression, anxiety, quality of life, medication adherence, psychological distress, children's psychosocial characteristics, healthy behaviors, mental and somatic well-being, fear of rejection, fear of recurrence, fear of secondary diseases, sleep problems, sadness, and exhaustion.

Conclusions: Pediatric organ transplant intertwines complex medical procedures with intricate psychosocial dynamics, placing nurses at the forefront of care delivery for pediatric transplant recipients and their families. In embracing a holistic approach to care, nurses advocate for the integration of psychosocial support into standard practice protocols, recognizing that optimal health outcomes extend beyond physiological parameters.