[A study of the psychological rejection risk factors in kidney transplant patients]

Undergoing kidney transplantation has an impact on the physical and psychological well-being of the patient. This study focuses on the psychological aspect, and in particular on the personality structure of the transplant patient. The 16-Personality Factor Questionnaire was applied to 12 successful and 12 unsuccessful renal transplant patients at H. F. Verwoerd Hospital. A significant personality difference was noted between these two groups. The patients who rejected the kidney had a low score on factors Q1, Q2, B and Toughmindedness. This implies a lower crystallised intelligence, greater conservativeness, respect of established ideas as well as a tendency to go along with the group. This information is pertinent to the selection of patients who are psychologically suited to transplantation. Psychologists can play an important role in the selection, preparation and rehabilitation of these patients.