John R. Hoffman is a Professor of Biology, public speaker and a scientist examining the recovery of the nervous system after injury. Since 2006 he has written several unpublished manuscripts and he is currently working on the first Nathaniel Smythe novel and short story collection. He spends his spare time with his family and running.

21 Organ Failure and Transplantation

Objectives

By the end of this lecture, the student will be able to:

  1. Describe why donor-recipient matching is crucial in organ transplantation.
  2. Describe the laws and procedures associated with organ donation.
  3. Explain the difference between an “opt-out” and an “opt-in” organ donation system.

Part 1. Organ Failure and Donation

This mini-lecture examines the science involved in organ and tissue transplants. The handout for this presentation can be downloaded and printed.

Part 2. Organ Donation Process

This mini-lecture examines the need for and laws associated with organ and tissue transplantation.The handout for this presentation can be downloaded and printed.

Reading:

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2008). Partnering with your transplant team: The Patient’s Guide to Transplantation. Rockville, MD: Health and Services Administration, Healthcare Systems Bureau, Division of Transplantation. pp. 1 – 2 Introduction, pp. 3 – 20 Transplant Experience, pp. 53 – 68 Transplantation in America.

What every patient needs to know (Organ Transplantation). (2011) United Network for Organ Sharing.

Assignment: Who’s organs are they?

The United States currently has an “opt-in” organ donation system, where an individual after receiving informed consent makes a decision to be an organ donor. However, in 2010 the New York State Legislature began considering an “opt-out” system, where everyone is presumed to be a potential donor unless they make an active decision to refuse. Within your small group, discuss the ethical considerations between the opt-in and opt-out organ donation systems.

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