EXPERIENCES OF ORGAN AND TISSUE DONATION COORDINATORS DURING COVID-19: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Akkurt, Ufuk

This study was intended to examine the experiences of Organ and Tissue Donation Coordinators (OTDCs) in Turkey involved in the cadaveric donor process during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a descriptive qualitative study conducted with 12 OTDCs working in nine different regions in Turkey. Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines were used to ensure transparency. Six themes emerged regarding the experiences of OTDCs: 1) intensity in intensive care units, 2) negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on OTDCs, 3) changes in the donor diagnostic process, 4) communication difficulties with family, 5) the reduction in potential donors, and 6) a decrease in organ donation activities of OTDCs. The findings emphasized that there were prolongations and changes in ...