Explaining the quality of life of organ transplant patients by using crisis theory

Ubiquitous findings regarding the quality of life (QOL) of transplant patients have yet to be explained from a theoretical perspective.

To investigate transplant patients' QOL by using the conceptual framework of crisis theory.

Cross-sectional study to explore differences in transplant patients' experiences of stress, coping, and QOL. Regression analysis was used to test crisis theory in relation to QOL, stress, and coping.

A total of 226 participants representing transplant candidates, transplant recipients, and nontransplant individuals participated via survey-based data collection.

Results showed that transplant candidates experience lower QOL than transplant recipients and nontransplant individuals. No significant differences were detected regarding stress levels or coping styles. Stress made a significant contribution to patients' QOL.

Current findings suggest important QOL benefits of organ transplant. Using a theoretical model is an effective way to investigate the QOL of people experiencing chronic illness such as end-stage organ failure. Further investigation is required to reach a conclusive understanding of the complex interaction between transplant patients' QOL, stress, and coping.