Reservations and preferences among procurement professionals concerning the donation of specific organs and tissues.

Abstract

Previous research has established that organ procurement professionals who talk with families about donation have strong personal preferences concerning the donation of specific organs and tissues. This study examines possible reasons for such preferences and compares them with those of hospital personnel who talk with families about donation. The findings suggest that preferences among procurement personnel closely resemble those of hospital personnel, but procurement professionals' reasons reflect a slightly higher rate of self-interest. Aversions among procurement personnel differ from those of hospital personnel. Procurement personnel have fewer aversions to donating eyes and skin and more aversions to bone, and their aversions are more likely to reflect professional experience with particular donations. The findings suggest the need for changes both in the way donation options are offered to families and the way hospital and procurement personnel are educated.