Informational needs of liver transplant recipients during a two-year posttransplant period

Abstract

Objectives To describe the informational needs of liver transplant (LTx) recipients, examine potential differences in informational needs by sociodemographic and clinical variables, and examine informational needs at various time points posttransplant. Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used. Informational needs were assessed by the Informational Needs Questionnaire-liver, a new questionnaire developed to include LTx recipients' perspectives. To examine informational needs at different posttransplant time points, participants were classified into four groups (0–1, 2–4, 5–9, and 10–24 months). Results Participants (159) who were married, single, had higher education, or higher monthly incomes had significantly greater informational needs. Informational needs regarding disease and physical and emotional management remained high after transplant. Four subscales (medication, wound management, diet, and daily and social activities) indicated informational needs were different across time. Participants 2–4 months posttransplant had higher informational needs regarding wound management and daily and social activities. Participants 5–9 months posttransplant had the highest informational needs regarding medication and diet. Discussion Findings indicate informational needs vary among LTx recipients at different posttransplant time points. Marital status, education, and monthly income can influence informational needs. Conclusion Healthcare providers should tailor information given to LTx recipients based on informational needs. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm changing patterns of informational needs.