Doctors' knowledge of tissue donation in children

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatric Medicine
• Transplantation

Background:

• Effective communication regarding organ and tissue donation is vital for families of critically ill children.
• Pediatric healthcare providers play a key role in initiating these sensitive conversations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the baseline knowledge of pediatric doctors concerning organ and tissue donation.
• To identify potential gaps in understanding that could impede discussions with families.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to 56 doctors in pediatrics, emergency medicine, and intensive care.
• The questionnaire covered fundamental aspects of pediatric organ and tissue donation.

Main Results:

• While 89% recognized children's eligibility for solid organ donation, 39.3% mistakenly believed premature infants were eligible.
• Knowledge regarding age limits for tissue (heart valve, eye), blood, and bone marrow donation was notably lower.
• The average overall score was 49.9%, with no significant difference based on doctor's grade or pediatric training.

Conclusions:

• Doctors caring for children possess inadequate knowledge of organ and tissue donation, complicating family discussions.
• A significant training need exists for all healthcare professionals involved in the care of dying children to improve donation awareness.