The circulatory death that saves lives—Intensive care nurses’ conceptions of participating during ‘donation after circulatory death’: A phenomenographic study

Key Points:

• Conceptions of Participation: ICNs’ views on their involvement in DCD varied, influenced by their perspectives on the healthcare system, team dynamics, and patient and family care. ​

• Identified Themes: Four main themes emerged: DCD as a system, ICNs’ role in the situation, life to death to life, and the essence of DCD. ​

• Success Factors and Challenges: Knowledge, experience, clear structures, and relationships with relatives were seen as facilitators, while lack of experience, difficulties in prognosticating death, and organizational obstacles posed challenges.