Assessment and management of psychosocial stress in lung transplant candidates. Toronto Lung Transplant Group.

Candidates for lung transplants have had their lives significantly disrupted, both by life-threatening lung disease and by involvement with a transplant program. The assessment and management of psychosocial distress as it has occurred in lung transplant candidates is described. Experience suggests that an informal social support network has been invaluable but is best complemented by formal interventions. Involvement with these candidates requires that the social worker be attuned to the unique circumstances and experiences of lung transplantation.