Abstract
M.Cur.
Various factors influence the process of organ donation. As a result there is a shortage of organs
for transplant. Poor communication and cooperation between transplant coordinators and
intensive care nursing staff can lead to the non-referral of potential organ donors, which is
detrimental to the process.
The purpose of the research is to ascertain the attitude and knowledge of the transplant
coordinators and intensive care nursing staff who work in intensive care units during organ
donation and to draw up guidelines for the improvement of communication and cooperation
between them.
Contextual descriptive research was done by compiling literature based questionnaires, one each
for the transplant coordinators and intensive care nursing staff and then analysing responses.
The indications are that problem areas exist between the role players in the organ transplant
process. This results in the insufficient referrals from intensive care units which are detrimental
to the organ donation process.
From this research, the following guidelines can be drawn up to promote organ donation:
To provide a policy manual regarding organ donation for every intensive care unit.
The respective roles of the transplant coordinator and intensive care nursing staff in the
organ donation process must be clarified.
Awareness campaigns should be held to promote organ donation.
Feedback should be given by transplant coordinators and intensive care nursing staff
regarding transplant occurrences.
Role models in practical situations should be identified.
An education programme regarding organ donation should be implemented. Emotional support programmes should be available to health personnel.