Estimation of the potential eye and tissue donor pool in an Australian emergency department

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: EDs have long been considered a potential source of eye and tissue donors, but no specific evidence to support this was identified in the Australian setting. The present study aims to bridge that knowledge gap, by analysing medical and social histories of those who have died over a 5 year period so as to determine donation eligibility in this population. METHODS: A retrospective audit was undertaken of all patients who died within the Royal Melbourne Hospital ED between 2010 and 2014. ED records, pharmacy records and electronic medical histories were audited for the presence of eye and tissue donation exclusion criteria and the distribution of these criteria within the target popu..