If a mortally injured patient's wishes regarding organ donation are not known, what should be done?

When a mortally injured patient's wishes regarding organ donation are unknown, obtaining consent from a family member is a crucial step in respecting the patient's autonomy and ensuring that the decision aligns with what they would have wanted. Family members can provide insights into the patient's values and beliefs, which can guide the consent process.

In many jurisdictions, the law recognizes the authority of designated family members to make healthcare decisions, including those related to organ donation, in the absence of explicit directives from the patient. This approach helps preserve the integrity of the donation process and respects the familial and emotional dynamics involved in such sensitive circumstances.

Collectively, this method balances the urgent need for organ procurement with ethical considerations, ensuring that decisions are made thoughtfully and in accordance with the principles of respect for persons and their wishes, where possible.