When a person has indicated a willingness to donate with a donor card, what is required for medical personnel to use the organs?

When a person carries a donor card, it signifies their intention to donate their organs after death. For medical personnel to utilize these organs, they generally need to confirm the donor's wishes. In many jurisdictions, permission from the next of kin is necessary even if a donor card is present. This requirement serves as a safeguard to ensure that the family's wishes align with the individual's decision, particularly in sensitive situations where emotional and ethical considerations are paramount.

While some places may have laws that uphold the donor's decision with the card, the involvement of the next of kin is a common practice to respect the family's role in the grieving process. It ensures that all parties have been consulted, which can help avoid potential conflicts or distress during a challenging time. Thus, in this context, obtaining permission from the next of kin becomes essential in the organ donation process despite the clear indication of the donor's wishes.