Authors (including presenting author) :
Lo KY(1), Wu MC(1), Ma SF(1), Yung KY(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Neurosurgery, Kwong Wah Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Organ Donation
Keyword 2: :
Staff Engagement
Introduction :
Organ donation can transform the sorrow of loss into the gift of life for multiple recipients and families. Neurosurgical patients suffering from sudden severe brain injuries or stroke are potential donors. Perceived quality of care prior to potential donation may affect families’ decision on organ donation. As
neurosurgical nurses, we have built rapport with patients and families since admission and before identifying potential donors. We are always the one who walk along the grieving path together. Our attitude and awareness may impact the outcome. Staff engagement is therefore important for organ donation. We are sometimes in a dilemma. We always understand it is a beautiful act of generosity and empathy to
extend the life of the needy others while also provide a sense of fulfilment for donor families despite of their tragic loss. On the other hand, we feel distressed when caring these critically ill patients as additional effort is needed to maintain haemodynamics. Excellent communication skills are also required for open discussions with families. Excessive stress, extra workload and lack of knowledge may lead to hesitation in participating in the process.
Objectives :
To reinforce nurses’ awareness and active participation in organ donation
Methodology :
Multiple strategies are needed to reinforce nurses’ awareness and active participation.
Education: Nurses’ knowledge is a factor influencing attitudes. Education and simulation training about end-of-life care, brain death and organ donation are provided to enhance competency and confidence of nurses.
Workload and Emotional Support: Supervisors provide assistance and emotional support to case nurses to manage additional responsibilities. Organ donation coordinators maintain liaison and guide donor management.
Recognition: Nurses' contribution to organ donation is acknowledged and appreciated with thank you cards and letters.
Culture Promotion: Stories of recipients and families are shared to highlight the positive impacts on saving lives and offering hopes.
Open Communication: Nurses are encouraged to express their views and concerns, share their experience, as well as provide feedback on organ donation practices.
Result & Outcome :
There were 33 referrals of potential organ donation from KWH Neurosurgery between 2021 and 2025, with increasing numbers in these two years. 3 cases successfully donated their hearts, lungs, livers, kidneys, corneas and skin to 17 patients.
With multidisciplinary effort and collaboration between doctors, nurses, organ donation coordinators, medical social workers and clinical psychologists, as well as various staff engagement strategies, we hope to extend this positive influence and brighten the life of more recipients and families.
