Waiting for lung transplantation: family experiences of relocation.

The waiting period for pediatric lung transplantation begins when it is determined that a child's only choice, other than transplantation, is death within 1 year. Children who are on the waiting list must always be within beeper range of the transplant center. Six parents who temporarily relocated with their children to be closer to the transplant center shared their perceptions of the experience. Data analysis led to the formulation of a descriptive category, experiencing relocation, and six related themes--putting life on hold, experiencing diminished emotional support, establishing new sources of support, undergoing role change, worrying about money, and making the best of the situation. Recognizing the unique needs of parents who must relocate for a child's transplant supports the delivery of individualized nursing care and the effective allocation of program resources.