Heart transplantation has become a well-established treatment for end-stage heart failure, with dilated cardiomyopathies (DCM) forming the single largest group of patients to receive a cardiac transplant. This case study presents the surgical journey of a 63-year-old male who underwent a cardiac transplant for DCM. The pathophysiology of DCM is explained within the context of this patient’s clinical presentation. His surgical transplant journey is also detailed, with a particular emphasis on his intensive care unit (ICU) stay and complications he experienced, including episodes of haemodynamic compromise and recurrent bleeding. The nursing management of his clinical recovery and patient education is also discussed.

Interventions for advanced heart failure not only prolong life but also optimise an individual’s quality of life and psychosocial outcomes. A literature review on the psychosocial journey of heart transplantation patients was undertaken to develop an understanding of quality healthcare services that can help improve patients’ quality of life. Enhanced knowledge of relevant research and current practices enables healthcare professionals to identify gaps in their clinical practice and to develop strategies to improve patient care. Following comprehensive consideration of the findings from the literature, it is evident that understanding the psychosocial journey of heart transplantation patients is critical in the delivery of quality healthcare services that leads to improved quality of life.