[Life lessons of eight families donating organs of deceased family members].

BACKGROUND

Most organ donors are already death. Therefore family members become an essential link in the final decision for organ donation.

AIM: To get acquainted about the life lessons of people who accepted donating an organ of a deceased family member.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Qualitative research, in depth interviews to eight families that accepted donating an organ of a deceased family member. The interviews were analyzed using the method proposed by Streubert et al and modified by Rivera.

RESULTS

The life lessons are described in six comprehensive categories. The painful experience changed towards the feeling that the loved one remains alive. This sensation generated a sense of pride in family members and sensitized them towards the painful experience of other people. Therefore, a desire to help and improve as humans beings was awakened.

CONCLUSIONS

A compassionate approach towards families donating organs with improve organ donation and humanize the process.