This study aimed to investigate the psychosocial aspects associated to different phases of the pediatric liver transplantation process. The participants were six mothers of transplanted children aging 4 to 8 years old and who had undergone liver transplantation less than six years ago. Participants were interviewed on their feelings and family experiences during the different phases of the illness. Qualitative content analysis revealed that children and families suffered intensively during the whole process. The period of waiting for a donor and surgery were experienced as the most stressful because of the intense fear of death. The results enhanced the importance of early and systematic psychological assistance for the children and their families during all phases of the process.
pediatric liver transplantation; transplant phases; psychosocial aspects
