Acceptance of xenotransplantation by patients waiting for organ donation: A qualitative study

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to determine the acceptance and barriers to xenotransplantation in patients waiting for organ transplantation. Methods It is qualitative and descriptive research. It was completed with 18 patients receiving treatment and waiting for organ transplantation in a dialysis center located in the inner region of Turkey between January 26, 2023 and February 3, 2023. Data were collected with an introductory information form and a semi‐structured interview form. The research data were collected through face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews. The content analysis method was used to analyze the data. In line with the goal of reaching data saturation, in‐depth interviews were conducted with 18 participants who were open to communication. Results Two main themes, “Values” and “Thoughts”, and five sub‐themes, “social and religious values, positive, negative and future thoughts”, were identified. Thirteen codes were created including “not being understood by the society, xenotransplantation prejudice, fear of ridicule and exclusion, religious pressure, desire for unconditional acceptance/rejection” and “thought of survival, hope, thought of sinning, submission to doctors, the attitude of religious men and excessive demand”. Conclusions Patients awaiting organ transplantation need religious, social, and community support for xenotransplantation.