Kidney transplant candidates’ and recipients’ perspectives on the decision‐making process to accept or refuse a deceased donor kidney offer: Trust and graft survival matter

BACKGROUND: The decision to accept a kidney from a deceased donor can be a difficult one. This study aims to capture the perspectives of transplant candidates (TCs) and kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) on the decision-making process when a deceased kidney is offered. METHODS: We conducted six focus groups with KTRs and TCs. The content of the focus groups was analyzed using the qualitative thematic method. RESULTS: KTRs reported that the experience of being offered a kidney could be difficult because of the circumstances of the offer and unpreparedness to participate in the discussion. Both KTRs and TCs trusted the medical expertise. Age and having experience with dialysis could influence the decision to accept an offer. In order to engage in the discussion, patients wanted to obtain estimates of expected graft survival. Patients did not express interest for a web-based calculator for patient use, but expected transplant physicians to summarize and explain the information that would impact graft survival time. CONCLUSION: TCs and KTRs wanted to be involved in the decision to accept a deceased donor kidney. Tools that can help physicians communicate the risks and benefits of accepting an offer could improve patient participation in the decision-making process.