Assessment of Knowledge, Perception About Transplantation and Life Changes in Renal Transplant Patients

Abstract

The objective of the study was to determine subjective factors such as adherence to treatment, knowledge levels, individual perceptions and lifestyle changes with a view to determine variables that could be useful for future processes in patients undergoing kidney transplant. Method: The study was conducted in the Nephrology Department of Gaziosmanpaşa Hospital, between January 2019 and November 2019. Fifty people aged between 18-70 years who had undergone renal transplantation at least 3 months ago and were treated as outpatients by applying to the nephrology clinic were evaluated. A semi-structured questionnaire including questions about their knowledge regarding transplantation, lifestyle changes in the transplantation process and personal perceptions was administered to the patients. Results: All patients expressed satisfaction with every step of the transplantation process. 32% of the patients were uncomfortable with medication and hospital visits and 44% were happy that dialysis was not in their life. 86% of the patients who underwent kidney transplantation reported increased quality of life after the operation and 36.7% stated that their sexual life changed positively. It was found that those who adhered to treatment mostly interrupted the use of medication (24%), and the sexual life of men and also patients with children were significantly affected more positively by transplantation. Those who did not receive adequate information before treatment had significantly more problems with adherence to treatment. Conclusion: It was found that the quality of life of the patients improved significantly after kidney transplantation. Men's sexuality was affected more positively by transplantation. By endeavoring to improve patients' knowledge and perceptions prior to kidney transplantation, patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment can be significantly improved.