Attitudes and knowledge about transplantation in dialyzed patients requesting a cadaveric kidney graft

Clin Nephrol. 2000 Apr;53(4):suppl 64-6.

Abstract

Aim: Eighty-two patients answered a multiple choice questionnaire aimed at identifying their presumed and actual knowledge regarding transplantation, given immediately before evaluation by our transplant team for inclusion on our kidney transplant waiting list.

Subjects, methods and results: A total of 78% stated that they had no or incomplete knowledge of transplantation and 22% were very well informed. The mean score for technical knowledge of transplantation (duration, requirement for removal of native kidneys, possibility of obtaining a second transplant, duration of immunosuppressive therapy and duration of the risk of rejection) was 3.1 +/- 0.15 SEM (maximal possible score 5), that for risk knowledge (risks of infections, unpleasant side effects, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, viral infections and cancer) was 1.4 +/- 0.15 (maximal possible score 6). A total of 23% knew that the spouse could donate a kidney, 74% stated that only a blood relative could and 3% that living donation was impossible.

Conclusions: There is scarce knowledge about transplantation, especially with regard to the risks and living donation.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cadaver
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Kidney Transplantation*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Renal Dialysis*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*