The Relationship Between Anxiety and Intolerance of Uncertainty Levels in Individuals Who Received Liver Transplant: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Studies have revealed that anxiety is associated with intolerance of uncertainty (IU); however, no study has examined the predictive effect of IU on anxiety in individuals with liver transplantation (LT). Therefore, this study aimed to identify the relationship between anxiety and IU levels in individuals who received LT. A descriptive cross-sectional study with a convenience sample ( N = 118) was conducted at a center in eastern Turkey. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and hierarchical linear regression analysis. The mean scores for the dimensions of IU, state anxiety and trait anxiety were 34.42 ± 8.35, 40.38 ± 10.07, and 41.88 ± 7.53, respectively. IU and anxiety in individuals with LT were identified as related dynamics. Present findings suggest that uncertainty and IU can be considered in the conceptualization and treatment of anxiety and related pathologies. Nurses may seriously consider these results in order to increase the quality of the treatment and care provided to patients.