Description of the quality of life of renal transplant patients from the Principality of Asturias

Abstract

Introduction: There is evidence in favor of the hypothesis that a kidney transplant does not necessarily improve the perceived quality of life of the recipient.

Objective: To evaluate the quality of life perceived by kidney transplant patients in the Principality of Asturias.

Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive design. Non-probabilistic discretionary sample selection on a retrospective cohort of patients with functioning renal implant, applying inclusion criteria. Telephone survey using the WHOQOL-BREF WHO questionnaire. Voluntary and anonymous participation, with prior informed consent.

Results: 60% of the potential sample participated. 53.3% men. Mean age 53.5 years (SD ± 10.14). For 78.3% their postimplant perceived quality of life was good. For 45% their physical health was not good; with differences by age: 50% of patients between 26th and 65th and 12.5% of those older than 66th had this perception. 58.3% presented feelings of sadness, anxiety, or despair; and 71.7% lacked sufficient resources for postimplant treatment; with differences according to academic level: 91% had primary studies, 43.86% university students. 88.3% were satisfied with their social relations, and 83.3% had social and family support.

Conclusions: Renal transplant patients perceived their quality of life as satisfactory. They did not perceive the same thing with regard to their physical and psychological health, referring to sleep disorders, depression, and economic inability to face post-implant treatments. His perception of the environment and socio-family support was positive, as well as the accessibility to health services and the information received.