The aim of the present study was to compare patients’ quality of life before and after renal transplantation, and identify coping strategies after surgery. Participants were 17 patients (9 female, and 8 men) with ages ranging from 23 to 55 years old (M: 37.9 years; SD: 8) assessed with the SF-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire, Ways of Coping Questionnaire, and a structured interview (before and after transplant). There was no significant difference in the quality of life assessment before and after the transplantation for the variables assessed by the SF-36. Patients’ major concerns were: effects of the medication, medical consultation, changes in corporal appearance, and hospitalization. Patients tended to use more emotion centered coping strategies, i.e., more subjective ways to cope with difficulties. There was no significant change in patients’ quality of life after transplantation.
quality of life; renal transplantation; coping strategies
