Discriminant variables between organ donors and nondonors: a post hoc investigation.

Abstract

Context: Few studies in organ donation have focused on the attitudes and opinions of families who were asked to donate the organs of a deceased relative.

Objective: To determine what variables influenced a family's decision to donate.

Design: Post hoc investigation using a survey.

Setting: Málaga, Spain.

Participants: Seventy-one people who had been approached for the donation of their deceased relatives' organs at a single hospital.

Main outcome measure: Consent to donate.

Results: Based on a stepwise discriminant function analysis, the following variables played a determining role in a family member's decision to donate: (1) the expressed wish of the deceased, (2) having a clear understanding of the definition of "brain death." (3) the manners and approach of the doctors, (4) the hospital facilities, (5) concerns regarding the donation process, and (6) educational level.

Conclusion: Prodonation campaigns geared toward the public and hospital staff should focus on specific objectives to increase the likelihood of consent for organ donation.