Living kidney donors' experiences while undergoing evaluation for donation: a qualitative study. Issue 15 (9th March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Agerskov, Hanne; Ludvigsen, Mette Spliid; Bistrup, Claus; Pedersen, Birthe D
• Is Part Of: Journal of clinical nursing. Volume 24:Issue 15/16(2015)
• Page Start: 2258
• Page End: 2267
• Publication Date: 2015-03-09
• Subjects: Nursing -- Periodicals; Clinical medicine -- Periodicals; 610.7305
• DOI: 10.1111/jocn.12776
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0962-1067

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" id="jocn12776-abs-0001"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <sec id="jocn12776-sec-0001" sec-type="section"> <title>Aim and objective</title> <p>To explore living kidney donors' experiences during the donor evaluation process.</p> </sec> <sec id="jocn12776-sec-0002" sec-type="section"> <title>Background</title> <p>Due to a shortage of organs for kidney transplantation from deceased donors, the living kidney donation rate has increased. The time period until transplantation is often shorter when using living donors compared to deceased donors. Although technological developments in immunology have made it possible to perform successful kidney transplants between donors and recipients, a large disparity still exists between the number of patients needing a kidney transplant and the supply of kidneys from living donors. This need has promoted donation from living kidney donors. The evaluation phase prior to donation is a crucial period in the recruitment of living kidney donors, as it ensures that donors are physically and mentally suitable for donation.</p> </sec> <sec id="jocn12776-sec-0003" sec-type="section"> <title>Design</title> <p>A qualitative study taking a phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach.</p> </sec> <sec id="jocn12776-sec-0004" sec-type="section"> <title>Methods</title> <p>Data were generated using participant observation during the evaluation period and semi‐structured interviews after conclusion of the evaluation. In total, 18 potential donors were included. Data were interpreted and discussed in accordance with Ricoeur's theory of interpretation: naïve reading, structural analysis, critical interpretation and discussion.</p> </sec> <sec id="jocn12776-sec-0005" sec-type="section"> <title>Results</title> <p>Feelings of hope concerning acceptance as a donor and concerns for the recipient's illness and everyday life were evident during evaluation. Donors' experiences largely depended on the quality of their communication and interaction with the healthcare professionals. In some cases, donors were supported and cared for, while in other cases, frustrations and vulnerability were evident and emotional support and attention to donors' needs were not present.</p> </sec> <sec id="jocn12776-sec-0006" sec-type="section"> <title>Conclusion</title> <p>The evaluation period for living kidney donation involves hope, vulnerability and concern. Interaction, communication and support from healthcare professionals to help donors manage this crucial phase are essential. Accordingly, the identification of donors' specific care and support needs, including physical, mental and ethical factors, is key to a positive experience.</p> </sec> <sec id="jocn12776-sec-0007" sec-type="section"> <title>Relevance to clinical practice</title> <p>The attention, commitment and engagement of healthcare professionals are essential elements in the identification of donors' individual needs.</p> </sec> </abstract>