Individuals living with a liver transplant – a follow-up study exploring mental, emotional and existential issues 10 years after transplantation

ABSTRACT

Background

Going through a liver transplantation is by many recipients considered mentally and emotionally burdensome.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore individuals’ mental, emotional and existential experiences living with a liver transplant during a period of approximately ten years.

Methodological design

The methodology in this study is based on Gadamer’s hermeneutics. Galvin and Todres’ conceptual framework on well-being was applied in the interpretation process.

Research methods

Both researchers conducted interviews, which took the form of conversations. We made use of Brinkmann and Kvales’ three types of interpretation.

Ethical issues and approval

The study was approved by the Ombudsman for Privacy of the Norwegian Social Data Services and is based on informed consent and confidentiality.

Results

Three themes emerged through interpretation: 1. From great suffering to gratitude and a humble attitude towards life. 2. From living in uncertainty to leading a normal life. 3. From hopelessness and anxiety to an indifferent attitude towards life.

Conclusion

This study showed that the process of receiving a new liver and living with it, had changed most of the participants’ attitudes towards life in a humble way. Some persons struggled with life and experienced depression anxiety, as well as lack of energy.

KEYWORDS:

• Liver transplantation
• 10 years post-transplant
• Existential
• Humble attitude
• Hopelessness
• Dwelling-mobility
• Indifferent attitude

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Author Contribution

Study design: DN, ITB; Data collection: DN, ITB; Interpretation: DN, ITB; Manuscript preparation: DN, ITB; Critical revisions for important intellectual content: DN, ITB. Both authors have read and approved the final manuscript.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.

Notes on contributors

Dagfinn Nåden

Dagfinn Nåden Professor Emeritus, Nursing Science, OsloMet – Oslo Metropolitan University, Department of Nursing and Health Promotion.

Ida Torunn Bjørk

Ida Torunn Bjørk Professor Emerita, Nursing Science, University of Oslo, Department of Public Health Science.