Factors Influencing Bereaved Familiesʼ Decisions About Organ Donation: An Integrative Literature Review
- Resource Type
- Academic Journal
- Authors
- Walker, Wendy; Broderick, Andrew; Sque, Magi
- Source
- Western Journal of Nursing Research. Nov 01, 2013 35(10):1339-1359
- Subject
- Language
- English
- ISSN
- 0193-9459
ABSTRACT: This article reports on the process and outcomes of a systematic integrative literature review, designed to enhance understanding of the factors influencing bereaved familiesʼ decisions to agree or decline the donation of their deceased relativeʼs organs for transplantation. Research originating from eight Western countries (N = 20 studies) provided an international perspective to the review. Thematic analysis and synthesis of textual data culminated in the development of three global themes (past, present, and future) that captured the temporal dimensions of family decision making. The review findings provide valuable insight into ways of increasing the rate of consent to organ donation through the development family-centered care interventions that reflect the needs of the bereaved. Further research to explore the pathway of donation after circulatory death and the experiences of bereaved families who decline organ donation is essential to providing a more complete understanding of the factors affecting donation decisions.