Summary  

Background: The donation process is complex and multi-faceted. The intensive care nurse has a central role in the care for the donor which among other things include organ preservation treatment and to support relatives. The chosen theoretical frame of reference was Katie Eriksson’s caritative caring theory. 

Aim: The aim was to describe the intensive care nurse’s experiences of caring for a potential organ donor. 

Method: A literature review founded on eleven articles of qualitative design published 2014-2023. After searching through the databases MEDLINE and CINAHL the articles were analysed using Friberg’s five-step model. 

Results: The key findings were presented in two main themes and seven sub themes. The two main themes were The challenges of the donation process and Conditions that promote the process. The intensive care nurse experienced the donation process as complex, multifaceted and emotionally challenging. Preserved circulation caused doubt as to whether the patient was deceased and the meeting with relatives was difficult. Routines and structure were lacking. Experience created security and a well-functioning teamwork with collegial support facilitated the process. 

Conclusions: The intensive care nurse experienced caring for an organ donor as complex and emotionally draining. A clear structure and well-developed routines facilitated the donation process.