Reasons for kidney transplant refusal among patients receiving peritoneal dialysis: A qualitative study.

BACKGROUND

Even though kidney transplantation has better outcomes compared to dialysis therapies, some patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD) refuse to consider kidney transplantation. Identification of the underlying reason for patient refusal may improve patients' acceptance of kidney transplantation.

AIM

The aim of this study was to describe the reasons given by Iranian PD patients for refusing kidney transplantation.

METHOD

Eighteen patients undergoing PD participated. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and were analysed using conventional qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

The analysis leads to the emergence of two categories and six subcategories: negative outcomes of kidney transplantation (financial burden, psychosocial problems and physical complications) and doubtful factors for kidney transplantation (negative attitudes towards kidney transplantation, long waiting time for kidney transplantation and compatibility of PD with daily life). The financial burden and long waiting time for kidney transplantation were the most important factors in the reluctance of kidney transplantation by PD patients.

IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE

Patients undergoing PD declined kidney transplantation for several reasons, such as financial burden, fear of post-transplantation side effects, long waiting time for kidney transplantation. Reducing the time of kidney transplantation and insurance coverage of transplant costs can change the attitude of PD patients towards transplant.