When caring for a patient who is an appropriate candidate for organ or tissue donation, the nurse ...

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A patient's choice regarding organ and tissue donation can be included in an advance directive. The 1986 Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) requires that a patient's significant others be offered the option of organ and tissue donation; however, organ donation is voluntary. It is important for persons to keep family members informed of their wishes regarding organ donation. Because of the sensitive nature of making requests for organ donation, professionals educated in organ procurement often assume that responsibility. They inform family members of their options for donation, provide information about costs (no cost to the family), and inform the family that donation does not delay funeral arrangements.