Perceptions and experiences of nursing workers about patient care in brain death

Abstract

Objective: to know the perceptions and experiences of nurse practitioners working in intensive care about the care of patients with known or suspected diagnosis of brain death. Method: qualitative, exploratory-descriptive study, performed with 19 nursing professionals from a University Hospital in the countryside of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, by means of interviews and sociodemographic questionnaire. Results: the care with the patient in brain death is permeated by problems relating to the emotional distress and complexity. Furthermore, the difficulties to approach the potential donor’s family stand out, as well as the lack of qualification and training required for the care. Conclusion: the nursing care with the patient in brain death is permeated by numerous difficulties and coping, resulting in the need for professional qualification and psychological support for workers.