The Donation Team’s Experiences of the DCD Implementation : A qualitative interview study

Background: The shortage of transplantable organs and the limited number of donations after brain death (DBD) have increased interest in donation after controlled circulatory death (DCD). Providing palliative care in intensive care units is complex and it is crucial that DCD patients receive equivalent palliative care. Intensive care staff require adequate education and support to navigate the challenges associated with the DCD process. Aim: To describe the donation team’s experiences of the implementation of donation after controlled circulatory death (DCD). Method: Qualitative interview study with an inductive approach. Data collection was based on a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic analysis was used as the method of analysis. Results: Five main themes were identified; experiences with implementing DCD, facilitating and hindering factors in both DCD and DBD, the holistic view in the DCD versus DBD process, adaptations and improvements within the organ donation system and the future of the organ donation system. Conclusions: The implementation of DCD was perceived as well-structured and has led to an increased number of organ donations, as well as improved palliative care for all intensive care patients. Successful implementation of DCD requires that staff receive adequate knowledge and support, which reduces resistance and fosters a healthcare culture based on shared goals and values.