Behind the Healing: Exploring the Psychological Battles of Kidney Transplant Patients: A Qualitative Insight

Abstract

Background and aims: Kidney transplantation is widely regarded as the optimal treatment for end-stage renal disease, offering benefits like prolonged life expectancy, enhanced quality of life, and greater cost-effectiveness compared to dialysis. While dialysis imposes considerable restrictions on patients, including diminished independence, many of these challenges can be alleviated through successful transplantation. However, despite the physical advantages of kidney transplants, the psychological struggles faced by transplant recipients are often overlooked, particularly in Ethiopia. This study aimed to delve into the psychological experiences of kidney transplant patients, shedding light on the emotional and mental battles they encounter post-transplant.

Methods: This qualitative study involved kidney transplant patients at SPMMC (St. Paul's Millennium Medical College). during the study period, regardless of donor type. A total of ten participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires containing both closed and open-ended questions. The data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The analysis focused on understanding participants' experiences and their interpretations of these experiences. Themes were identified by examining commonalities and differences in the participants' accounts, with special attention to areas of convergence and divergence.

Results: The analysis revealed both positive and negative psychological experiences among kidney transplant patients. Positive experiences included feelings of "re-birth," thankfulness, strengthened social bonds, freedom from dialysis, enhanced self-efficacy, and increased social support. Negative experiences included dependency, fear of the future, challenges with adherence to treatment, and occasional regret.

Conclusion: Life after a kidney transplant is significantly more positive and empowering compared to life on dialysis. However, psychological challenges remain, highlighting the need for ongoing psychological support to address both positive and negative aspects of the transplant experience. Future research should focus on providing continuous support, including counseling and support groups, and integrating these systems into kidney transplant care to enhance overall recovery.

Keywords: experience; kidney; psychological; qualitative; transplantation.

Figure 1

A conceptual graph showing the interconnections among major themes (positive and negative psychosocial experiences, interventions), sub‐themes, and their relationships.