Predictors of consent in tissue donation: Interpersonal aspects and information provision during requests by phone

Objective: To examine whether interpersonal behavior and provision of key information by tissue requesters (TRs) during phone requests for tissue donation with initially undecided next-of-kin (NOK) predict consent/refusal to donate. Methods: The sample consisted of 102 TR-NOK dyads in which NOK reported that they were initially undecided about their intentions to donate their loved ones' tissue. Audiorecordings of requests, gathered from a national sample of tissue banks, were coded to assess for interpersonal behavior of each interactant. The effects of TR and NOK interpersonal behavior as well as information provision by the TR on consent/refusal were examined. Results: Expressions of disapproval by the TR strongly predicted NOK donation decision. Predictors of consent included fewer questions asked and more supportive statements made by the TR, as well as reassurance from the TR that donation would not lead to disfigurement or affect the appearance of the body. Conclusion: Aspects of the communication process between TR and NOK during requests for tissue donation significantly predict consent to donate among initially undecided NOK. Practice implications: TR trainings aimed at improving interpersonal skills and provision of key information could potentially increase tissue donation consent rates.