The Role of the Critical Care Physician in Organ Donation

The physician’s “role” can facilitate a successful organ donation at several key points in the process. Recognizing when a patient should be referred to the OPO, maintaining hemodynamic support of the patient, communicating with the patient’s family, and collaborating with the OPO staff are components of successful organ donation. Neuroresuscitation, brain death declaration and hemodynamic support of that patient are all directed by the critical care physician. These factors affect whether or not the patient’s organs are viable for transplantation. This 55-minute podcast or vodcast (PowerPoint slides + audio) addresses how and why your role is critical to the success of transplanting organs.

Additional Resources

Catastrophic Brain Injury Guidelines

Sample Brain Death Checklist

Sample Brain Death Policy

Sample Apnea Test Guidelines

American Academy of Neurology

AMA Credit Designation

This enduring material is jointly sponsored by the University of Virginia School of Medicine and LifeNet Health.

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint sponsorship of the University of Virginia School of Medicine and LifeNet Health. The University of Virginia School of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The University of Virginia School of Medicine designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

You must complete an evaluation of this learning activity in order to receive your CME certificate.