Referral & Evaluation

ALL patient deaths (imminent brain death and cardiac death) must be referred to the procurement organizations. There are no exclusions. The referral number is
1-800-24-SHARE (1-800-247-4273). Always refer the patient before mentioning donation to the family.

When to Call

  • For patients on a ventilator, call if brain death is imminent. Imminent brain death is when a patient exhibits at least two of the following neurological deficits:
    • no response to painful stimuli.
    • pupils are fixed and dilated
    • no cough reflex.
    • does not appear to be triggering the ventilator.
  • For patients not on a ventilator, call as soon as possible after cardiac death.

  • Call if the family mentions donation, or when you or the family have questions about donation.
    • You will be asked a series of questions about your patient's medical history. If your patient meets initial donor criteria, the Donation Coordinator will need to obtain additional information in order to determine final donor suitability.

    If it is determined that donation is an option, see "Making the Connection." If it is determined that donation is not an option.

    Inform the family that donation would normally be discussed with them; but because of [contraindication from coordinator], donation is not an option.

    If the family has questions, refer them to the Donation Coordinator.

    Complete hospital Record of Death Form.
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