Holistic care and symptom management for pediatric kidney transplant recipients

Pediatr Nephrol. 2024 Jun;39(6):1759-1769. doi: 10.1007/s00467-023-06175-7. Epub 2023 Oct 18.

Abstract

While many aspects of life may improve substantially for children and young people undergoing kidney transplant, there may be new challenges including symptoms that can be detrimental to health-related quality of life. Addressing symptoms requires attention to patient and family perspectives and a holistic approach grounded in symptom management. The interdisciplinary pediatric nephrology transplant team should be attuned to the prevalence of common symptoms including fatigue, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, pain, and sleep disturbances, as well as poor body image and sexual health. These common symptoms require regular assessment with a focus on appropriate interventions and how care may be impacted by transplant status.

Keywords: Health-related quality of life; Pediatric Kidney transplant recipients; Side effects; Symptom management.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anxiety
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Kidney Transplantation*
  • Pain
  • Palliative Care
  • Quality of Life
  • Transplant Recipients