Deceased Donation

Deceased donation involves a complex series of events requiring teamwork among physicians, nurses, hospital staff and organ procurement and transplant teams.  The five major steps that generally define the donation process are outlined below. The significant activities (in bold) will always occur, but the sequence and time frame may vary depending on individual circumstances. The process can vary from a few hours up to more than 20 hours.
 
Step 1: Identification and Referral

• Pronouncement of death in a hospital, after evaluation, testing and documentation by the appropriate physician.
• Referral to procurement organization for initial evaluation
• Death explained to the family
• Evaluation of patient's chart and key information by Organ Procurement Organizations (OPO)

Step 2: Consent

• Individuals over 18 who are listed on the Donor Registry are considered first person consent

1. Donation process reviewed with family
2. Medical/Social History obtained from family. Medical Examiner/Coroner's release obtained for donation

• Individuals under 18 and those not on the Donor Registry require family/guardian consent

1. Donation options discussed with family
2. Consent forms signed and witnessed
3. Medical/Social History obtained from family. Medical Examiner/Coroner's release obtained for donation

Step 3: Evaluation and Maintenance

• Test for contagious diseases
• Evaluate organ and tissue suitability
• Optimize hemodynamic functions
• Identify potential recipients for organs

Step 4: Recovery

• Mobilize transplant teams
• Organ recovery procedures occur in operating room
• Preservation and procurement of organs
• Eye and tissue recovery follow organ recovery
• Autopsy and/or release of body to funeral home.

Step 5: Transplant