Using crisis theory to explain the quality of life of organ transplant patients

To evaluate the literature on the stress, coping, and quality of life of organ transplant candidates and recipients, and to place previous research within a theoretical context. CINAHL database, Proquest database, Google Scholar; references from articles were also reviewed to identify additional data. Qualitative and quantitative research studies and meta-analyses pertinent to the stress, coping, and quality of life of transplant candidates and recipients were selected. Stressors associated with the transplantation process, coping strategies of transplant patients, and quality of life or transplant patients have been well researched for many years. Patients typically use problem-focused coping strategies in response to various stressors. Transplant recipients typically report a higher quality of life than do transplant candidates; however, posttransplant quality of life does not typically equal the quality of life of healthy nonpatients. The relationship between stress, coping, and quality of life of transplant patients has not yet been systematically investigated from a theoretical perspective. Recommendations for further research are provided.