The Donation Process

The process of donation involves many factors and relies on the support of the donor’s family, the LifeSource coordinator and the hospital and medical staff.

Emergency Room

Critically ill patients are transported to the ER where life-saving measures begin.

Intensive Care Unit

The medical team works to save the patient's life.

Death

Donation can only proceed after death has been declared. When lifesaving efforts have been unsuccessful, the hospital notifies the donation agency.

Authorization

A LifeSource donor coordinator searches for documentation of donation wishes. If the individual has expressed their wish to be an organ and tissue donor LifeSource will work with their family to support and honor those wishes. LifeSource recognizes the right of every individual to make a personal decision about donation and respects the importance of honoring those wishes to extend the gift of life.

If the individual has not indicated their wishes about donation, the next-of-kin will be asked to provide authorization. Once there is authorization for donation LifeSource begins the donation process.

Organ Placement

Organs are matched with the patient on the national transplant waiting list who is the best match.

Organ and Tissue Recovery

Transplant teams come to the hospital to recover the donor’s organs. Like other operations, this surgery takes place in an operating room. Tissue is recovered after organ recovery surgery is completed.

Transportation

After organ recovery, the organs are transported to the transplant center via the most appropriate means. Donated tissue is sent to a processor for further screening and sterilization before transplantation.

Follow-Up

The donor’s family receives a letter telling them some information about the outcome of the donation. A Donor Family Services Coordinator offers bereavement support and referral services.