Operating Theater Nurses' Main Concerns During Organ Procurement Procedures: A Grounded Theory Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Transplantation Science
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• Organ procurement is a critical step in transplantation.
• Perioperative nurses play a vital role in the organ donation process.
• Understanding nurses' experiences is essential for improving care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Swedish perioperative nurses' experiences with organ donor patients.
• To identify nurses' primary concerns during organ procurement.
• To understand coping mechanisms employed by nurses.

Main Methods:

• Constructivist grounded theory methodology was employed.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 perioperative nurses.
• Grounded theory analysis, including coding and category development, was performed.

Main Results:

• The core category identified was 'optimum organ procurement'.
• A grounded theory emerged with four categories: brace oneself, facilitate, procurement, and completion.
• Commitment was identified as the driving force for perioperative nurses.

Conclusions:

• The developed theory offers insights into the perioperative nurse's role in organ procurement.
• This theory can guide team-based approaches to ensure dignified care for donor patients.
• Enhanced understanding may improve support and preparation for nurses involved in organ donation.