Keegel, TessaMobarki, Yara Mohammed2024-12-162024https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14154/74229Aim This study aims to identify factors associated with Return-To-Work (RTW) following heart and/or lung transplantation by conducting the first systematic review that draws on qualitative research. Design A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024596250). A support group for people with lived experience of heart and/or lung transplant, the Heart and Lung Transplant Trust Victoria (HLTTV), was consulted to help shape the research question and provide insights into the needs of transplant recipients returning to work post-transplant. A conceptual model from the heart and lung transplant literature was used as a theoretical framework. Data Sources A comprehensive search of five databases Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO along with a bibliographic hand search, was completed in consultation with a search expert (AP) on August 22, 2024. The inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed qualitative studies published in English from the year 2000 onwards. Review Methods Screening was conducted by at least two researchers at each stage of the review. Data were extracted using a systematic reporting table. Quality of the included studies was assessed using a validated qualitative checklist. Thematic analysis was employed to synthesize the findings, the identified themes analysed compared to the conceptual model. Results The review included seven qualitative studies published between 2009 and 2024, encompassing 136 participants. Six major themes influencing RTW were identified including: physical barriers (e.g., fatigue, organ rejection, infections, and immunosuppressant side effects), psychological barriers (e.g., fear of rejection and health decline, low self-esteem), and environmental barriers (e.g., job discrimination, inadequate job opportunities). Social adaptation, workplace support, and professional and family support emerged as essential facilitators. Limitations of the review include the original focus of the qualitative studies being general social engagement, with RTW included as part of social engagement in some studies, as well as inclusion participants with other solid organ transplants. Conclusion Return to work (RTW) after heart and/or lung transplantation requires a comprehensive, multilevel support approach. Review findings are incorporated into a conceptual model illustrating how individual, interpersonal, community, and societal factors can influence RTW outcomes. Future research should examine workplace accommodations, rehabilitation, and healthcare support to improve the RTW process for heart and/or lung transplant recipients.32en-USReturn to workHeart and/or lung trasnplantQuality of lifeThesis