In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Maureen A. Madden, DNP, RN, CPNP-AC, CCRN, FCCM, speaks with James R. Rodrigue, PhD, FAST, and Richard D. Hasz, MS, about their article, “Racial Equity in Family Approach for Patients Medically Suitable for Deceased Organ Donation,” published in the December 2024 issue of Critical Care Medicine.

The study found racial equity in organ procurement organization (OPO) family approach among patients who were medically eligible for organ donation. Dr. Rodrigue and Mr. Hasz explain that previous studies showing racial disparity in family approach were based on 25- to 30-year-old data. The changes in organ donation systems since then were what motivated Dr. Rodrigue and Mr. Hasz to conduct new research.

Their findings highlight the positive impact of standardized OPO practices on equitable access to organ donation opportunities. Dr. Rodrigue and Mr. Hasz emphasize the importance of timely referral, family-centered communication, and coordination between hospital teams and OPOs in facilitating donation conversations during emotionally charged moments. These practices complement advances in technology and expanded donor eligibility criteria to make more donations possible. Integrating organ donation information into driver education programs and expanding registration opportunities to settings such as voter registration can also help increase awareness and informed consent, especially among young people.

Resources referenced in this episode:

Racial Equity in Family Approach for Patients Medically Suitable for Deceased Organ Donation (Rodrigue JR, et al. Crit Care Med. 2024;52:1877-1884).

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