Deceased donor care provided by the nurse transplant coordinator: A qualitative research study among Spanish nurses

The purpose of this study is to describe the experience of nursing care provided to the deceased organ donor by the nurse transplant coordinator.

A qualitative exploratory study was conducted within the National Transplant Organization and the Regional Office for Transplant Coordination. A purposive sampling method was used. Data collection methods included semistructured interviews. Sampling and data collection were pursued until the researchers achieved information redundancy. A systematic text condensation analysis was performed. The Guba and Lincoln criteria for guaranteeing trustworthiness were followed.

A total of 16 participants were recruited, and three themes were identified regarding care of organ donors by the nurse transplant coordinator during the organ donation process: (a) fulfilling the desire and will of the donor patient; (b) the family as an extension of the donor; (c) coordinating the organ donation process.

The donation process is both complex and delicate, and nursing care is an essential component. The care provided by the nurse transplant coordinator has the donor at the centre of the process, driven by respect for their decision. The family is seen as an extension of the donor. Nursing care should focus on continuous, honest communication, coordinating care with the intensive care unit, ensuring privacy and intimacy.