Sexual care needs of kidney transplant recipients: a grounded theory study

Objective: The objective of this study is to identify the challenges pertaining to sexuality and sexual health, as well as the corresponding sexual care needs, among individuals who have undergone kidney transplantation. Additionally, the study aims to develop a comprehensive theoretical model that elucidates these sexual care needs. Method: In this study, the "systematic design" approach, one of the grounded theory designs, was used. Purposive sampling method and theoretical sampling technique were used to determine the research participants. The sample consisted of 21 individuals who had undergone kidney transplantation. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews, and theoretical notes were maintained during the data analysis. The data analysis process comprised three stages: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. Throughout the analysis, the continuous comparison technique was utilized to distinguish and separate themes from one another. Results: As a result of the study, a core category, four main themes, 10 themes, and 14 sub-themes were found. The themes that emerged to describe the sexual care needs of individuals who have undergone kidney transplantation were identified as follows: "Understanding Sexuality," "Communication to Improve Sexual Health," "Sexual Health Education," and "Sexual Relationships Following Kidney Transplantation." The core category that encapsulated the essence of the study results was identified as "Sexual care needs of individuals who have undergone kidney transplants." Conclusion: This study presents a theoretical model addressing the sexual care needs of individuals who have undergone kidney transplantation. The study findings indicate that following kidney transplantation, individuals require assistance in understanding sexual health, engaging in discussions about sexual health with nurses, enhancing communication with their partners, establishing a supportive environment for open conversations about sexuality, receiving sexual health education, defining fears about sexual intercourse, and clarify unknown situations. Key words: kidney transplant, sexuality, sexual health, nursing, care, grounded study