Perceptions of the donation process from adult-to-adult living liver donors.

Overview

BACKGROUND: Donor safety and the impact on quality of life continue to concern transplant centers as living liver transplantation increases. METHODS: Living liver donors participated in a focus group to discuss their perceptions of the donation process. RESULTS: The decision to donate was a personal choice made before the request by the recipient or transplant service. Spouses verified their support, but indicated that they were not included in the process. No donors felt coerced. The explanation of the procedure was thorough but excessive. Hospital care was good; however, donors admitted being unprepared for the pain and side effects of pain medications. Ongoing incisional discomfort continued beyond 6 weeks and prevented donors from feeling normal. Donors felt conflicted about competing with the "true" patient for healthcare. CONCLUSIONS: Donors were positive about the need and willingness to donate. Sensitivity to the order of the disclosure process is identified.