Abstract
Background:There is a lack of theoretical framework supporting stem cell transplant nurses in their assessment, judgment and caring interventions of sibling stem cell donors.Objective:The purpose of this study was to explore sibling stem cell donors’ main concerns and how they deal with them before and after donation.Method:Ten healthy sibling donors, 5 men and 5 women, with a median age of 54 years were included in this study when they were due to donate stem cells to a brother or sister. Data were collected prospectively on three occasions (before the donation and three and twelve months after it) through in-depth interviews, which were recorded and transcribed verbatim for analysis by the Grounded Theory method according to Charmaz.Results:This study describes the efforts of the ten donors to fulfil their duty as a sibling by doing what they considered necessary in order to help. Their efforts were summarised in a process wherein the grounded theory generated three main categories; Prepare, Promote and Preserve. A clear path of transition leading to fulfilment is evident, starting before the donation and continuing for one year afterwards.Conclusions:Being a sibling stem cell donor means doing what you have to do to fulfil your duty and if possible, saving the life of a seriously ill brother or sister. The relationship between the siblings is strengthened by the donation process. Sibling stem cell donation appears to be about fulfilment and the theoretical framework may support clinicians in their evaluation and support of donors.
Highlights
The rationale behind this study is the complete lack of a theoretical framework to support stem cell transplant nurses in their assessment, judgment and caring interventions when caring for sibling stem cell donors
In the final step we explored the applicability of the theory in the Out-patient clinic by observing three potential sibling donors in their decision-making process when volunteering for a second donation
Fulfilment is defined as experiencing a duty to “you do what you have to do” in order to try to save your sibling’s life
Summary
The rationale behind this study is the complete lack of a theoretical framework to support stem cell transplant nurses in their assessment, judgment and caring interventions when caring for sibling stem cell donors. Kisch and Forsberg cells are collected either by bone marrow harvest or, more common nowadays, peripheral blood stem cell collection (PBSC). A donor undergoing bone marrow harvest often spends 2-3 days in hospital, while PBSC collection is usually performed over one or two days at the Out-patient transplant clinic. If a patient is in need of a second transplantation there might be enough stem cells saved from the donation performed for the first transplantation. There is a lack of theoretical framework supporting stem cell transplant nurses in their assessment, judgment and caring interventions of sibling stem cell donors
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call