The Ethics of a Postmortem Testicular Harvest

Faith and religion are topics that are not routinely discussed or of much significance in the emergency department (ED). However, there are certain cases when faith or religion can cause certain ethical dilemmas for the physician, patient, or hospital. Understanding patients' beliefs affects our own medical decision-making and the ability to treat certain illnesses. Hospital policy or religious views of the hospital can affect patient management. Spirituality or religion in the ED will not be an issue with every patient; however, there are times where religious beliefs will be at the very center of an ED visit, as shown by this case report.

A 42-year-old man presented to the ED in cardiac arrest. Despite resuscitation and appropriate advanced cardiac life support, he was pronounced dead in the ED. The patient's wife stated they were trying to have a child and requested testicular harvest, planning for in vitro fertilization. Being at a Catholic institution, this raised important ethical questions. After the involvement of several disciplines, a resolution was reached that placated the patient's wife and the hospital.

This report highlights the importance of understanding the ethical questions raised from faith-based issues in the ED to be able to provide the highest level of patient-centered care.