Using Information to Manage Uncertainty during Transplantation

• In Event: Top Papers in Health Communication

Abstract

People living with chronic illness experience uncertainty about their physical condition, identity, and relationships. One way individuals manage this uncertainty is through managing information related to their illness. We conducted in-depth interviews with 38 pre- and post-transplant patients. Participants described the ways in which they appraised uncertainty, the information sources they utilized, specific information seeking and avoidance behaviors, and challenges posed by information. This research extends literature on information management, uncertainty in illness, and transplantation.

Authors

• Anne Stone, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

• Allison Scott, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

• Summer Carnett, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

• Dale Brashers, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign