Standing on Both Sides: Analysis of a Transplant Coordinator's Ethical Position Between the Recipient and the Donor's Family

Abstract

When an organ is harvested from a deceased donor, how should transplant coordinators handle the issue of contact between the donor's family and the organ recipient? The authors-qualified both by their own considerable practical experience and theoretical investigation-discussed various aspects of the problem, relating to the bioethical issues as well as the practical dilemmas that must be clarified and decided. They proposed a strategy whereby transplant coordinators can analyze their own philosophical attitude toward the issue and respond accordingly in their work to the needs and preferences of both parties. The professionals handling the transplant process need training tailored to the bioethical issues relevant to the challenges they are likely to confront. This training must consist not only of theoretical and ethical guidance but also simulations designed to clarify the clinician's own personal belief system and raise awareness and self-reflection of their own biases.