Factors that create trust in the donation after circulatory death process among surgical personnel: a qualitative descriptive study

BACKGROUND: The global scarcity of organs donated for transplantation has rekindled the interest in donation after circulatory death to augment the organ donation pool. However, there is a notable gap in our understanding of the attitudes and experiences of the surgical personnel involved in donation after circulatory death retrieval operations, which can adversely impact the success of donation after circulatory death programs. METHODS: We conducted focus group interviews using open-ended questions both before and after surgical personnel participated in the donation after circulatory death pilot. Thematic analysis was applied to the focus group data. RESULTS: Focus group responses generated one main theme: Trust in the donation after circulatory death process and four subthemes: Documents and education about donation after circulatory death; Intensive care unit handover to operation; Factors during the surgical process that strengthens team building; and Treating the donors and their families with dignity and respect. CONCLUSION: Trust in the donation after circulatory death process, which fosters a supportive work environment among surgical personnel, hinges on the implementation of national donation after circulatory death guidelines based on evidence, a comprehensive intensive care unit handover that elucidates knowledge about patient care details, a pre-surgery planning meeting that generates team spirit. Furthermore, it is perceived vital to treat the donor with the utmost respect and dignity, as would any other patient.