Forensic nursing implications for organ and tissue transplantation

Most critical care nurses are aware of the clinical protocols that relate to organ and tissue recovery and transplantation. However, few understand the forensic or legal implications. The shortage of transplantable organs and tissue has prompted the development of a national network for recovering and allocating of suitable organs. Rigorous federal and state laws address the myriad of issues about medicolegal or forensic issues associated with the processes involved in retrieval and use of human organs and tissues. This article describes unique contributions of the forensic nurse in ensuring that medical and legal requirements are appropriately addressed.