Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Nursing PhD student, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
2
Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
10.30476/ijcbnm.2026.108186.2875
Abstract
Background: Self-care is vital for managing chronic conditions like kidney transplantation, enhancing patient outcomes and preventing complications. This study aimed to explore barriers to self-care in patients with kidney transplants.
Methods: A conventional content analysis approach was employed in this qualitative study conducted in Urmia, Iran, from June 2024 to March 2025. Purposive sampling continued until data saturation was reached. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 18 participants (15 kidney transplant recipients and 3 healthcare providers). Interviews were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman’s method. Ethical considerations were upheld throughout, and MAXQDA version 10 was used to analyze the data.
Results: The participants’ mean age was 45.93±0.53 years. Three main themes emerged: (1) individual barriers (Insufficient knowledge about self-care, negative thoughts and feelings toward the disease, and difficulty in changing lifestyle); (2) disease-related barriers (Disability and limitations due to the disease, complications associated with transplantation, and economic challenges due to the disease); and (3) barriers related to inadequate support (Limited family and social support, restricted access to healthcare services and specialists, and insufficient supportive follow-up from the healthcare team).
Conclusion: Kidney transplant patients encounter significant barriers to self-care, including individual, disease-related, and support-related challenges. Addressing these barriers through targeted interventions, such as educational programs, psychological support, financial assistance, and strengthened social networks, can enhance self-care practices, benefiting patients, families, communities, and policymakers.
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