Today there is a critical shortage of organ and tissue needed for transplants. Nearly 50,000 Americans are waiting for organ transplants while hundreds of thousands more need tissue transplants. Tragically, many die each year because the organs or tissues they need are not available. You can help save lives by becoming an organ or tissue donor.
Your organs and tissue will not be donated unless a family member gives consent at the time of your death-- even if you've signed your driver's license or a donor card.. It's important that you make your family part of your decision.
Tell them about organ and tissue donation and why you feel good about deciding to become a donor. Explain to your family the difference that one person can make.
Sharing your decision with your family ahead of time will make it easier for them to carry out your wishes later.
Q. What does "brain death" mean?
A. Brain death occurs when blood no longer can flow to the brain and tissue dies. This condition is irrervsible. Although the brain has died, other organs and tissue can function for a short time if supported by artificial mechanical means.
Q. Is there any conflict between saving the life of the donor and donating the organs for transplantation?
A. No conflict exists. Organ Donation is considered only after the determination of death has been made, based on strict medical guidelines. Law proibits physicians who are involved in the removal or transplantation of organs from participating in the certification of death of a potential donor.
Q. Are there any restrictions on who can be an organ/tissue donor?
A. Anyone of any age may be a donor. Medical acceptability is determined at the time of death according to the condition of the organs and tissue. Sign your donor card and let the doctors decide.
Q. What is the religious viewpoint on organ donation?
A. Most religions consider organ donation a gift of life and an expression of the highest humaniitarian ideals.
Q. Why and for how long must thr ventilator be kept on after death for organ donation?
A. The ventilator is needed to provide oxygen to the vital organs and is kept on until surgery is completed, usually six to eight hours. Tissues such as eyes, skin and bone may be procured several hours after the heart stops and do nor require maintenance on a ventilator.
Q. Will any pain be felt during surgery?
A. None. All brain funtions has stopped; it is physically impossible to feel pain.
Q. What will happen after the organs and/or tissues have been removed?
A. After surgery, the body will be prepared and the funeral home contacted as with any person who dies in the hospital. The body is treated with respect and reverence. If death falls within the jurisdiction of the Medical Examiner, he may exercise his rights to examine the body.
Q. What about funeral arrangements?
A. Organ donation does not delay funeral arrangements or add to the cost. There is no disfigurement and a normal funeral service may be held.
Q. Does the family incur any costs or receive any payment related to the donation?
A. The donor family is never billed for expenses related to a donation. Also, the donor family is not paid for organ donatiom, as this would be in violation of federal and state law
Q. If a person has a signed donor card, can anyone refuse the donation?
A. Yes! The next of kin makes the final decision. That is why it is so important to discuss your decision to be an organ donor with your family.
10. ORGAN DONORS GIVE NEW DAWNS
9. YOUR GIFT IS SOMEONES FUTURE
8. RECYCLE LIFE...THE WARRANTY IS TRANSFERABLE
7. DOESN'T COST ANYTHING
6. THE LIFE YOU SAVE MAY BE A LOVED ONES
5. NEARLY 40,000 PEOPLE ARE WAITING FOR ORGANS
4. YOU WON'T NEED IT ANYMORE
3. A PART OF YOU LIVES ON
2. CREATE A MIRACLE...YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERANCE
1. SAVE A LIFE
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