Photoeducation and Photoprotection Among Liver Transplant Candidates

Abstract

The incidence of skin cancer after liver transplant ranges from 3% to 16%, considerably higher than that observed in the general population. Skin cancer causes 25% of deaths in patients who have survived more than 3 years after liver transplant. The objective of this study was to identify differences regarding the level of sun exposure, knowledge of potential risk factors, and photoprotection measures among liver transplant candidates and recipients. We carried out a prospective cross-sectional study with 100 patients enrolled at a liver transplant program in a Brazilian center. The patients were interviewed and received oral information regarding skin care and sun exposure. Results reveal that measures of photoprotection and photoeducation are more prevalent among recipients than among candidates. High degrees of solar exposure were observed more frequently among candidates, although recipients showed better knowledge about the risks of sun exposure. Educational actions concerning skin cancer prevention should be part of the guidelines given by the multidisciplinary team to the liver transplant patients, in particular, by the nursing team.

Caracterização sociodemográfica e clínica de candidatos a transplante de fígado

“…In national research, patient survival rates at one year and three years after surgery were 68.4% and 64.4%, respectively. (6) In the United States, these figures reach 82.4% and 76.75%. (7) This therapy has increased the survival rate for adults with irreversible liver disease in end stage.…”

“…(5) Thus, organ candidates need to be prepared for diagnostic tests and should understand treatment and learn how to handle the necessary care for a long period until the surgery. (6) Knowledge of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of a population or sample are useful for nurses in an attempt to plan and introduce effective interventions that address the identified health/disease needs, especially in relation to changes in lifestyle and disease prevention. Often patients with chronic liver disease can behave impairing their health condition.…”

Educational Strategies for Liver Transplant Candidates and Recipients: An Integrative Literature Review

“…Thus, teaching and learning the patient and their families about the correct use of these medications after discharge from the hospital is crucial for the autonomy and independence of those involved, as well as for the prevention of complications. 8 The teaching must cover nutritional aspects, medication, vital signs measurement, among others, which require the development of cognitive, attitudinal, and psychomotor skills of the patients, ensuring the continuity of care and the active participation of those involved. 9 After transplantation, recipients need to adapt to a new lifestyle in order to minimize the occurrence of complications such as rejection, infections, and tumors.…”

Estratégias Educativas para Candidatos e Receptores de Transplante de Fígado: Revisão Integrativa da Literatura

“…Assim, o ensino e a aprendizagem do paciente e seus familiares sobre o uso correto desses medicamentos após a alta hospitalar são cruciais para a autonomia e independência dos envolvidos, bem como para a prevenção de complicações. 8 O ensino deve abranger aspectos nutricionais, medicamentosos, medida dos sinais vitais, entre outros, que requerem o desenvolvimento de habilidades cognitivas, atitudinais e psicomotoras dos pacientes, assegurando a continuidade do cuidado e a participação ativa dos envolvidos. 9 Após o transplante, os receptores precisam adaptar-se a um novo estilo de vida, a fim de minimizar a ocorrência de complicações como a rejeição, infecções e tumores.…”