The only failure that occurs is when the family is never approached. The manner in which a family is approached can be the deciding factor for organ donation. Family members who are given accurate, truthful information, who have their questions answered, and who believe that they have been dealt with honestly are more likely to respond positively to a request for organ and tissue donation. The bedside nurse is probably the single most important person in this process. Nurses are most likely to initially identify a potential donor, call the referral to the OPO, and be involved in the asking process because of their relationship with the family.
Families can benefit from their decision to donate.
Beyond altruistic satisfaction, they may find solace and comfort in knowing that their loved ones can live on through others. And nurses can know that their participation helped this act of kindness occur. UNOS Bulletin . October 27, 1999. Crit Care Nurse .