The Core of Sibling Stem Cell Donation - A Grounded Theory Study

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transplantation Medicine
• Psychosocial Support

Background:

• Lack of theoretical framework for nurses assessing and caring for sibling stem cell donors.
• Need for understanding the donor experience beyond the medical procedure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the primary concerns of sibling stem cell donors.
• To understand how donors cope with these concerns pre- and post-donation.

Main Methods:

• Grounded theory approach using in-depth interviews.
• Prospective data collection from ten healthy sibling donors at three time points (pre-donation, 3 months, 12 months post-donation).

Main Results:

• Donors' efforts are characterized by a process of Prepare, Promote, and Preserve to fulfill their perceived duty.
• A clear transition towards fulfillment is observed from pre-donation through one year post-donation.
• The sibling relationship is enhanced through the donation process.

Conclusions:

• Sibling stem cell donation is driven by a sense of duty and the desire to save a sibling's life.
• The donation process fosters fulfillment and strengthens sibling bonds.
• A theoretical framework can aid clinicians in evaluating and supporting sibling donors.