Abstract
Introduction: This study aimed to assess the functional status of kidney and liver transplant patients and identify factors associated with improvement in their condition.
Methods: A descriptive-analytical study was conducted involving 375 patients, 195 kidney and 180 liver transplant recipients, from Imam Reza Medical Training Center and transplant specialists’ offices in Tabriz. Data were collected using the “Personal-social factors of patients” questionnaire and “Karnofsky Performance Scale Index”, and analyzed using SPSS version 24. Descriptive (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistical tests (independent t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation), with significance set at P<0.05.
Results: Liver transplant patients had an average functional status score of 80.06±9.54, while kidney transplant patients scored 77.64±8.53, a significant difference. Among kidney recipients, men demonstrated better functional status, while among liver recipients, women performed better. Poor economic status, unemployment, and low education was associated with lower functional levels. In contrast, patients reporting strong social support and physical activity exhibited higher functional status scores. An inverse relationship was found between age and functional status, while time since transplantation showed a direct relationship.
Conclusion: Employment status, income level, social support, and housing conditions significantly influence post-transplant functional status. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.