The support experience of heart transplant recipients

Abstract Introduction: Heart transplantation is an important option for patients with heart failure who are at the final phases and have not responded to other treatments. The process complexity for heart transplantation may strict and severe patients who enjoy inadequate support system and their lifestyle is below the standard after transplantation. This research intended to study the experience of the heart transplant recipients of supportive sources. Materials & Methods: This study applied a qualitative approach using a descriptive phenomenology method. The purposive sampling was conducted with 9 participants and collected data was analyzed through Colaizzi method. Results: Four concepts were extracted from data including lack of social support, role of spouse, medical staff support and peers support. Conclusion: The findings of this study on part of the heart transplant recipients’ experience can help to develop the care of these patients and the supportive sources and ultimately provide appropriate area to improve the life and life style of patients. Keywords: Support, Heart transplantation, Qualitative approach