A Resource Guide to a Timely Discussion:
How Hope and Donation Discussion Can Co-Exist
Medical team: “It’s too soon to speak to this family about donation.”
Family: “We wish you would have spoken to us sooner.”
In 2023, 12 families declined donation because LifeCenter did not have the opportunity to speak with them before the formal decision was made to withdraw support. They stated if they would have been informed donation was an option when they were making other end-of-life plans, they would have said “yes.”
Having a Timely Discussion with families about organ donation is crucial for several reasons;
- It ensures that loved ones are aware of the option of organ donation.
- Permits the family to act confidently by taking time to consider all end-of-life options, instead of rushing into a decision right before extubation is set to occur.
- Allows the donation process to be considerate of the family’s timeframe and expectations. The hope is to ensure the timeliness needed for donation is consistent with the family's expectations regarding end of life.
Scenarios that Trigger a Timely Discussion
Family Understands Non-Survivable Prognosis
The family indicates they understand the patient will not recover.
Decision Made to Limit, Decelerate or Change Code Status
The family indicates they want to limit medical intervention.
Family is Making
End-of-Life
Plans
The family is meeting with the palliative care team to discuss end-of-life options or test results.
Pulmonary /
Hemodynamic
Instability
The patient suffers an event that may compromise the opportunity for donation.
