Introduction: Transplantation is a medical procedure in which a donor organ is transplanted into a person with organ failure. It is an established treatment for kidney, liver, pancreas, heart and lung failure, as these organs are classified as solid organs. For people with solid
organ failure, transplantation can enable survival and improve quality of life. Nevertheless, the transplantation process is associated with numerous physical, emotional and
psychological burdens. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of solid organ transplant recipients in Slovenia. Methods: A descriptive qualitative research design was used, with data analysed through qualitative content analysis. Data were collected using in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The study sample included members of the Slovenian Transplant Association who had received a solid organ transplant, including a kidney, heart, lungs, liver or pancreas. Results: The analysis identified seven themes: the experience of illness and the decision to undergo transplantation; attitudes towards
transplantation, the donor and the transplanted organ; emotional experiences throughout the transplantation process; recovery and treatment after transplantation; care to maintain health and prevent infections; psychosocial support; and life after transplantation. The results show
that transplantation represents an important turning point in a person’s life. The period before transplantation is associated with the physical and emotional burden of illness, loss of independence, uncertainty and different ways of accepting the decision to undergo transplantation. After transplantation, quality of life and a sense of independence often improve, while gratitude and joy at a new opportunity for life are also prominent. Life with
a transplanted organ requires increased attention to health and responsible medication use. Family members, healthcare professionals and other people with experience of transplantation represent important sources of psychosocial support. Discussion and conclusion: Solid organ transplantation involves not only survival or improvement of health status, but also an important emotional and existential experience. Positive and distressing
emotions are intertwined, and personal coping strategies, self-reflection, social support and a focus on the positive aspects of life play an important role in managing them. After transplantation, gratitude, care for health, self-management of treatment and the desire to help others after organ transplantation often become more pronounced. The findings highlight the importance of holistic care, which, in addition to physical treatment, includes recognition of psychological experiences and appropriate psychosocial support.
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