Knowledge, attitudes and willingness to donate organs among Medical and Nursing students

Abstract

Abstract Background: The increasing demand for organ donors and proficient experts is prompting fresh research endeavors aimed at clarifying societal perceptions and actions related to organ donation. Students from the healthcare area have been a focal point in these studies. Despite their favorable attitudes, a notable gap in knowledge among students has been underscored. Objective: To assess the level of knowledge, willingness, and attitudes toward organ donation among medical and nursing students in the city of Recife, Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional investigation was undertaken, involving the examination of questionnaires that were answered by medical and nursing students during their last academic years. Results: Between February and December 2022, a total of 218 questionnaires were gathered, of which 208 were included in the final sample. Among the participants, 57.2% identified as male, with an average age of 24 ± 2.7 years. In terms of academic background, 85.1% were enrolled in medical school, while 14.9% were attending nursing school. A notable observation was that only 49% of the students were aware that the diagnosis of brain death does not necessarily require the involvement of a neurologist. Furthermore, a significant proportion of students (63%) were unfamiliar with the entity responsible for initiating discussions with the potential donor’s family. Interestingly, 92.3% of the students had contemplated the prospect of becoming organ donors themselves. If a family member were diagnosed with brain death, a significant majority of students, specifically 83.2%, expressed their willingness to grant consent for organ donation. Conclusions: Despite the positive attitudes, this study revealed insufficient knowledge among students, thereby underscoring the need for universities to expand their curricula and establish courses aimed at acquiring knowledge and skills related to brain death cases and actions related to potential donors.