THE EXPERIENCE OF LIVING WITH UNCERTAINTY: RECEIVING A SOLID ORGAN TRANSPLANT

Abstract

The journey from diagnosis that an organ has failed to transplant is extensive. However, the journey does not end there. The process of receiving an organ transplant is only the beginning of a new journey and time of uncertainty. There have been numerous studies looking at the issues related to adherence to an exhaustive immunosuppressive regimen, as well as the psychological and functional impact of individuals who have received an organ transplant. However, further examination of the experience of receiving an organ transplant, and the uncertainty associated with this experience, is needed to better understand the phenomenon and its impact upon the individual. The purpose of this study is to explore and describe the lived experience of persons who have received a solid organ transplant and the uncertainty associated with this experience. Mishel's Theory of Uncertainty in Illness (1988, 1990) served as the framework for this study. A descriptive phenomenological design was utilized. A purposive sample of 10 participants, over age 18, who fulfilled the criteria for sample selection, were selected for this study. Data were collected through unstructured, audio-taped interviews that were transcribed verbatim. Data was then analyzed through Giorgi's (1985) phenomenological method. Results, implications, and conclusions were then based upon the data received.