Qualidade de vida de pacientes em lista de transplante hepático: um estudo qualitativo

Abstract

Introduction: Liver transplantation is a very meaningful and emotional moment for patients. Goal: Describe the quality of life of chronicle hepatic disease patients waiting for a liver transplantation. Methods: Descriptive study with qualitative approach made in Salvador-Bahia between January 2017 and January 2018. This project includes eight patients from Magalhães Netto Ambulatory, in HUPES. Their quality of life was assessed through a semi-structured interview made from SF-36. Results: Six subjects reported poor health. Six couldn’t work after being diagnosed and seven stopped doing leisure activities. Apparently, mental and emotional aspects didn’t interfere in their decision about interrupting previous occupations. Six patients denied pain. Seven denied fatigue, whereas other had no ones weariness. Strength reduction was reported by five subjects. Seven ones feel full of energy. Patients emphasized physical health aspects instead of mental ones relating to their quality of life. Besides, this study shows that they feel comfortable, specially with the companion of health professionals. Many show positive feelings such as hope and self-confidence. Conclusion: These patients’ quality of life is compromised in several aspects, including general health state, complexion, functional capacities, social life and vigour.