Effect of Patient Education on Kidney Recipients Knowledge, Coping and Quality of Life

Effect of Patient Education on Kidney Recipients Knowledge, Coping and Quality of Life. A Randomized Controlled Trial.

For patients with end-stage kidney disease, transplantation is the treatment of choice, offering improved quality of life by restored metabolism and freedom from dialysis. However, demands regarding the acquirement of knowledge in life post transplantation are high. In order to reduce rejection episodes, graft loss and the negative consequences of life-long immunosuppressive medication, it is essential for kidney recipients to possess knowledge about important aspects regarding immunosuppressive medication, graft surveillance and the benefit of specific lifestyle behavior. Consequently, patient education is required for this patient group. This randomized controlled trial is investigating the effect of a structured patient education program on kidney recipients' knowledge, coping and quality of life

Inclusion Criteria:

• being over 18
• recently had a kidney transplant
• able to speak, understand and read Norwegian
• mentally able to participate in the study