On May 10, 2024, an awareness programme on "Organ Donation" took place in the OPD waiting area of the Department of Urology, organized by the College of Nursing at AIIMS Rishikesh in collaboration with the MOHAN Foundation. The objective was to enhance understanding and awareness about the significance of organ donation.

 

Dr Rakhi Mishra, Assistant Professor at the College of Nursing, AIIMS Rishikesh, commenced the program with a welcoming address, emphasizing the importance of promoting organ donation. She highlighted how organ donation saves lives and instils hope in patients, stressing the noble impact of this act.

 

A street play (nukkad natak) themed around organ donation was performed by first-year students from the Nursing College at AIIMS Rishikesh, in collaboration with the MOHAN Foundation. This theatrical presentation effectively conveyed key messages advocating for organ donation.

 

Furthermore, nursing students conducted an informative talk on organ donation for OPD & IPD patients, their attendants, hospital staff, volunteers, and participants. This session aimed to debunk myths and provide factual insights into organ donation.

 

An information desk dedicated to organ donation was established, where frequently asked questions (FAQs) flyers were displayed and distributed to enhance comprehension of the topic.

 

During the program, participants raised several queries at the information desk, including inquiries about the process of whole body donation at AIIMS Rishikesh, the possibility of organ donation alongside whole body donation, the process of tissue donation, AIIMS Rishikesh's initiatives for deceased organ donation, and the feasibility of skin donation after death.

 

Dr Arup Kumar Mandal, Professor at the Department of Urology, concluded the program with a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the College of Nursing, MOHAN Foundation, and attendees. A group photo session with all participants of the Nukkad Natak marked the conclusion of the event, signifying a crucial step in raising awareness and advocating for organ donation in the community.

 

By the program's conclusion, 8 nursing students and 2 patient attendants registered for organ donation on the NOTTO website, while 1 attendant registered for whole body donation at AIIMS Rishikesh.

 

Close to 60 participants attended the programme.