Knowledge and perceptions of donation after circulatory death among nurses: a multicentre survey in Northern Italy

Introduction

Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD) has become an increasingly important strategy for expanding the donor pool and addressing the persistent shortage of organs available for transplantation. Nurses play a key role throughout the donation process; however, evidence regarding their knowledge of DCD in Italian healthcare settings remains limited. Materials and Methods: a multicentre cross-sectional survey was conducted between June and July 2024 among registered nurses working in three hospitals in Northern Italy. An adapted version of a previously published questionnaire was used to assess knowledge and perceptions regarding DCD. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.