'You Have to Be Well, to Be Sick'-A Qualitative Study of Young Adults' Experiences of Undergoing Liver Transplantation.

BACKGROUND

Compared to children or older adults, young adults (age 18-29) who undergo liver transplantation are more likely to have poor psychological health and a higher risk of graft failure. Understanding patient needs and perspectives is important for caring for young adults and improving long-term health outcomes.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To (1) understand young liver recipients' experiences, needs and views throughout the transplantation process and (2) identify possible improvements in their care.

METHODOLOGICAL DESIGN AND JUSTIFICATION

Three focus group interviews were conducted to investigate young people's experiences.

ETHICAL ISSUES AND APPROVAL

The study was performed in compliance with the Helsinki Declaration and was approved by the Danish Data Protection Agency (P-2020-559).

RESEARCH METHODS

Ten young liver recipients (aged 19-34) who had received a liver transplantation aged 18-29 at Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark were divided into three focus groups. The focus groups were carried out and transcribed.

INSTRUMENTS AND/OR INTERVENTIONS: We have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines in accordance with COREQ.

RESULTS

Data was analysed thematically. We identified three main themes: (1) Balancing illness and youth, (2) Being mentally resourceful and (3) Facing a new kind of chronic illness. We found that young liver recipients struggled with the conflict between youth and chronic illness, even after transplantation. To address this, they emphasised the need for more age-appropriate information and improved mental support from healthcare professionals or peers.

STUDY LIMITATIONS

Because liver transplantation is a rare outcome, especially among the younger population, this study could include only a small group of participants.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that young liver transplant recipients are a vulnerable group who would benefit from specialised care, emphasising mental support before and after the transplant, along with transparent and honest communication.