Obtaining consent for organ donation

The medical, emotional, and legal environments in which consent for organ donation is pursued greatly influence the outcome of this request. Knowledge of the circumstances and facts regarding brain death are important first steps in resolving misconceptions a potential donor's family may have that might preclude a favorable decision. The attitudes of hospital staff members toward these issues, and the grief and shock experienced at these times by next-of-kin, further complicate the circumstances in which consent for organ donation is requested. Clarification of traditional religious beliefs and reconciliation of these with the concept of organ donation may also have to be addressed at this time. Significant benefit to the bereaved family as well as to the transplantation process can accrue only in an atmosphere in which all involved understand the facts of brain death, and in which organ donation is viewed positively.