Perceptions of the relatives of patients suffering from chronic renal failure regarding kidney donation

Abstract

This study aimed at exploring and describing the perceptions of relatives of patients with chronic renal failure regarding kidney donation. The number of patients suffering from chronic renal failure awaiting kidney transplantation is on the increase, while the treatment they get in the interim is not cost effective. The researcher used qualitative descriptive and exploratory research using the Potter and Perry’s Health Belief Model. She applied purposive sampling and used semi structured interviews to collect data from 45 participants who were all relatives of patients coming for haemodialysis at a selected hospital in KwaZulu-Natal. Data analysis identified participants’ perceptions regarding chronic renal failure and kidney donation. Findings of the study revealed that most relatives were fully aware of kidney donation, but fear and lack of knowledge regarding kidney transplantation were the main barriers to them offering themselves for kidney donation. The researcher recommends that the Renal Transplant Multidisciplinary Committee should ensure the public is informed about kidney donation and more intensive education should be given to the relatives of patients suffering from chronic renal failure at an early stage in the illness to give them more time to come to terms with the concept of kidney donation.