Approach of the Clinicians Practicing in Intensive Care Units to Brain Death Diagnosis and Training Expectations in Turkey: A Web-Based Survey

Abstract

Background. For health professionals, recognizing and diagnosing brain death is vital for the development of organ transplantation. However, cadaveric organ donation rates remain insufficient, and this problem has become one of the most serious obstacles in the treatment of end-organ failure. Objectives. This study examines the attitude and knowledge level of clinicians who practice in intensive care units (ICUs) concerning the determination of brain death and describes the hindrances in diagnosing brain death. Materials and Methods. A survey study was designed with 26 questions, including questions regarding the determination of characteristics of respondents' trainings, prac-ticing preferences, and their knowledge and approach toward brain death diagnosis. Clinicians practicing in ICUs in Turkey were invited to the survey. Results. A total of 244 surveys were fully completed. Physicians working at the university hospitals or university-affiliated hospitals answered the basic knowledge questions about brain death more accurately (P < .001). Also, physicians employed in university or university-affiliated hospitals feel more capable in diagnosing brain death (P 1/4 .002) and are more willing to receive education on the brain death issue (P < .001). Conclusion. There is a gap separating the practices suggested in guidelines and the daily practice of ICU clinicians working in state hospitals or private institutions. Academic organizations producing and leading the education curricula may assist in informing ICU clinicians who should be trained.