Predictors of quality of life in heart-transplant recipients in Taiwan.

OBJECTIVE

This correlational study sought to identify the predictors of quality of life in heart-transplant recipients in Taiwan.

METHODS

One hundred and fifty-three patients were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected using 6 questionnaires: (1) a demographic questionnaire, (2) the Transplant Symptom Frequency and Symptom Distress Scale, (3) the Self-Efficacy of Exercise Scale, (4) a compliance questionnaire, (5) the Beck Depression Inventory, Short Form 13, and (6) the Medical Outcomes Short Form 36-Health Survey. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 17.0 software (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, IL). Data analysis included percentages, means, standard deviations, correlation coefficients, and forward regressions.

RESULTS

Depression was an independent, and the strongest, predictor of quality of life. Self-perceived health status and self-perceived family support also predicted quality of life. Symptom distress level predicted the physical aspect of quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this understanding, an interdisciplinary team can initiate a needs assessment for these heart-transplant recipients, and develop an intervention to meet their needs.