Exploring of Living Donors’ Experiences Following Liver Transplantation: a qualitative descriptive study

Background and Objectives: The main challenge in liver transplantation is shortage of donor organs, and using living donor live transplantation (LDLT) has been considered as a new strategy. This study aimed to explore the concept of liver transplantation in living donors’ experiences after donating. Materials and Methods: A qualitative study with qualitative descriptive approach was conducted in 12 participants with 4 days to 12 years history of liver donation, who were selected using purposive sampling. Data was collected using unstructured in-depth interviews and was analyzed by content analysis and constant comparative analysis. Results: One main theme and five sub themes emerged. Participants described liver donation as a "life-saving and voluntary action with different aspects influencing life". From physical and emotional aspects, the liver transplantation was described as “a relatively hard surgery with unpleasant physical consequences after surgery which is required a continued home care” and “A combination of positive and negative feelings including hope, fear and concern”, respectively. The liver transplantation was identified as a humanitarian action, life-giving and beautiful, from the spiritual aspect. From the social dimension liver transplantation was explained as” a voluntary work with social prestige which needs the family and government support”, and from the economic aspects it was identified as” an expensive and time-consuming procedure”. Conclusion: Although living donors have experienced numerous problems, donation was perceived as a voluntary lifesaving behavior. Even though, a low severity of physical complications, and gradual returning to previous healthy condition was reported by most of participants, further research is needed to recommend this operation. In addition to physical dimension, the other aspects of liver transplantation should be considered and supported by nurses and supportive organizations