A. Non-directed donors (NDDs) can potentially help alleviate the overburdened kidney transplant waiting list while also improve the quality of life for patients with end-stage renal disease. However, there is very little known about the U.S. NDD experience and their post-donation lifestyle. The purpose of this study was to describe the post-donation experiences of 31 NDDs and determine the effects of the donation on their quality of life and lifestyle, using in-depth interviews. B. Applying a general inductive approach for qualitative analysis, three coders independently reviewed and coded interview transcripts. As a group, codes were then refined and rearranged to develop categories and identify themes related to the post-donation experience. C. Several thematic areas relating to the post-donation experience of NDDs were identified among participants, including high levels of satisfaction and appreciation about their donation, confusion surrounding the standard of post-donation follow-up care, increased consciousness about their physical health and lifestyle behaviors, and uncertainty on whether to contact their transplant recipient. D. Primary findings suggest that the NDDs expressed no significant changes in their general health or lifestyle, however, they became more conscious about their health and health behaviors post-donation. The majority of NDDs in our study also expressed that if given the opportunity, they would participate in the donation process again as well other organ donations. Nevertheless, the results also suggested that many of the NDDs did not receive adequate information outlining the post-donation process, and were often unclear about their follow-up care and whether to contact their transplant recipient. Findings from this study will provide insight into the potential challenges faced by NDDs during the post-donation period and help inform, more broadly, ongoing discussions and policy to optimize the non-directed donation experience and improve the quality of post-donation care and resources.

CITATION INFORMATION: Maghen A, Vargas G, Connor S, Nassiri S, Hicks E, Kwan L, Maliski S, Veale J. Post-Donation Experiences of Non-Directed (Altruistic) Living Kidney Donors in the United States. Am J Transplant. 2017;17 (suppl 3).

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