Mental health of recipients after cadaveric liver transplantation: A perspective from positive psychology

Abstract

Aims and Objectives The aim of this study was to explore the mental health of transplant recipients, especially psychological integration and the donor‐recipient relationship. Background Psychological integration and the donor‐recipient relationship are unique psychological perception of recipients with transplantation, which have important effects on their mental health and recovery. However, few studies have focused on the feelings and attitudes of cadaveric liver transplant recipients. Design A qualitative descriptive design was used. Methods Individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted face‐to‐face with 30 recipients after liver transplantation. Qualitative content analysis was used and data saturation was achieved. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ) were used. Results Three themes and eight subthemes were identified. (1) Psychological integration—acknowledging the transplanted liver was a part of their own body and attaching great importance to the liver; (2) Attitudes towards the donor—gratitude to the donor, being inspired by the dedication of the donor and mourning the donor's misfortune; and (3) Living in the moment—health behaviours of self‐care, emotional regulation and positive attitude about life. Conclusion The psychological integration of recipients of cadaveric liver transplants is smooth, and the attitudes towards the donor are positive. From the perspective of positive psychology, we observed the important role of post‐traumatic growth of the recipient and positive emotions in promoting the recipient's health behaviours for self‐care, emotion regulation and attitudes towards life. Relevance for Clinical Practice Medical staff should help recipients to deal with these issues about the organ and its donor constructively and guide them to focus on postoperative inner growth and positive emotion.