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Positive expectations predict health after heart transplantation
B Leedham1, B E Meyerowitz, J Muirhead
1Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90089-1061, USA.
Summary
Positive expectations in cardiac transplant patients correlate with better mood, adjustment, and quality of life. High preoperative expectations also predict greater adherence and improved physical health post-transplant.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Transplantation Medicine
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Cardiac transplant recipients face significant physical and psychological challenges.
- Patient expectations are increasingly recognized as a factor influencing health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between positive expectations and adjustment, adherence, and health in cardiac transplant patients.
- To determine if preoperative expectations predict post-transplant outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-one cardiac transplant patients and their nurses completed questionnaires.
- Data were collected pre-transplant and at three time points post-surgery.
- Patient self-reports and nurse ratings were used to assess outcomes.
Main Results:
- Patients' positive expectations were linked to better mood, adjustment, and quality of life, irrespective of health setbacks.
- High preoperative expectations predicted adherence to the medical regimen.
- Pre-transplant positive expectations significantly predicted nurse-rated physical health at 6 months, controlling for adherence and preoperative health.
Conclusions:
- Positive expectations are a valuable psychological resource for cardiac transplant recipients.
- Fostering positive expectations may enhance patient adjustment, adherence, and physical health outcomes following cardiac transplantation.