A phenomenological approach was selected in order to investigate the meaning of the transplant experience to parents. The postulates developed by Schutz for formulating and verifying the subjective meaning structures of an experience from the actor's perspective were integrated with the method of phenomenological analysis developed by Colaizzi. The framework was consistent with humanistic nursing practice theory, which calls for phenomenological descriptions of the nursing situation. Evaluation criteria for qualitative research were incorporated into the process of data collection and analysis and applied to the findings.

Parents of 12 children were interviewed, using a relatively unstructured interview format. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed. Significant statements were identified, and categories, theme clusters, themes, and subthemes were formulated. The categories of (a) trajectory of the lung transplant experience, (b) relationships with others, and (c) healthcare system formed a basis from which to expand nursing knowledge.

The multiple realities of the parents within the transplant experience reinforced the need to individualize nursing care. Themes that reflected parents' descriptions of their situation included: (a) transplantation as a new lease on life or as a turning point, (b) the waiting period as a time of putting life on hold, and (c) transplantation which included coming to terms with the transplantation, normalizing the situation, and living with uncertainty.

The interrelationships between parents' sources of strength and support and the transplant experience were evident. A lack of understanding of the parents' situation was apparent at the personal and societal level.

Parents' perceptions of the reality of their situation were explored within the context of the healthcare system. The value of concerned and collaborative care was identified.

Humanistic nursing provided the link between the findings and nursing practice. Implications for nurses as care providers and collaborators and as agents for social change were identified.