Adaptation Process of Male Kidney Transplant Recipients During the Difficult Postoperative Recovery Stage at Home

Background: Kidney transplantation is the main treatment for irreversible organ failure. It helps patients regain hope, prolongs their lives, and improves their quality of life. Because of cultural barriers, male kidney-transplant recipients in Taiwan may face a difficult adaptation process during postoperative care at home. Methods: In this qualitative exploratory study, we employed purposive sampling of male kidney-transplant recipients that was obtained from a leading medical center in Taiwan. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were used to collect data, which were further content analyzed. Results: All 30 qualified patients were approached and agreed to participate (age range = 29-67 years). Participants’ post–kidney transplant time frame ranged from 2 to 22 years. We revealed several difficulties that participants experienced during their postoperative recovery: (1) physical and mental exhaustion and treatment side effects; (2) worry and uncertainty about rejection, graft failure, and the future; (3) fear of losing one's job and putting the family in financial trouble; and (4) impaired self-image and social barriers. Corresponding adaptation processes included (1) experiencing shock during the early post-transplantation stage, (2) re-identification of the transition period of self-value, (3) seeking support and thinking positively, (4) accepting one's new self-image, and (5) regaining autonomy. Conclusion: The current results can be used to improve the quality of care at home for male kidney-transplant recipients. Health care providers should assist patients in the adaptation process to reduce discomfort and relieve stress. This study can also serve as a reference for future research.