What is tissue donation?
UH Bristol is a Tissue Donation Alliance
Site. This means that every adult death is referred to NHS
Blood and Transplant so that the possibility of tissue donation can
be explored.
If you pass away at one of our hospitals, your next of kin will
receive a leaflet explaining that a specialist nurse from NHS Blood
and Transplant may contact them. If donation is a possibility the
nurse will be in touch within a few hours of your death. If your
family consent to you becoming a donor the retrieval of tissues
will be carried out.
It is important to talk to your family so that they are aware of
your wishes.
What tissue can you donate?
- Eyes (cornea and sclera)
- Heart valves
- Meniscus (knee cartilage)
- Tendons
- Bone (inc full joints)
- Skin
- Femoral arteries
- Trachea
How long after death can tissue be donated?
Tissue is normally donated within 24 hours after a patient has
died. However, sometimes it is possible to donate up to 48 hours
after death.
Can you tell if a patient has been a tissue
donor?
Throughout the donation the donor is treated with respect and
dignity. After donation our specialist teams will ensure the donor
maintains a natural appearance. You may see your relative after
they have donated before they are laid to rest, if you
wish.
Will tissue donation interfere with funeral
arrangements?
Donation will not delay any funeral arrangements.
After donation can you receive any
information?
Yes, with permission. An NHS Blood and Transplant nurse will
write a thank you letter and provide information about the
donation.
More information can be found here.
Source: NHS Blood and Transplant.
