Refusal to renal transplantation in the Hemodialysis Unit. An approach from the social perception

Abstract

Introduction: Generalities on the current panorama of renal transplantation and the social perception as a category to work. Objective: To explore the elements of social perception that conditions the refusal of renal transplantation. Method: A qualitative study was carried out, with a phenomenological focus. Semi-structured interviews, observation and review of documents were used. The study was conducted with a sample of 26 subjects, including 17 patients and nine medical assistants. Results: A social perception mediated by criteria contrary to renal transplantation was evidenced by a part of the healthcare personnel and by patients of the unit, due to the recent failures of renal transplants, iatrogenies in the communication, inadequate strategy of attraction of patients for the renal transplantation program and the socialization of frustrations. And at individual level, due to the presence of fear, inadequate self-evaluation of the state of health, distrust in the surgical team and lack of psychological senses with respect to the transplant. Conclusions: The social perception of renal transplantation among patients is conditioned by the confluence of exogenous and endogenous factors that hinder vision and decision making.