DA-FND-110:
Brenda Coleman

We Already Gave His Heart

Brenda Coleman has already agreed to donate her four-year-old son's heart following brain death, but struggles to understand why additional organs or tissues might also help others. The advocate must use simple, non-clinical language, recognize signs of confusion, and respectfully explore whether the family wishes to expand Aiden's gift without implying their original decision was insufficient.

Through the challenge of plain-language communication when revisiting a heart-only authorization, the primary learning objectives are to:

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
  • Communicate using plain, non-clinical language
  • Recognize and respond to signs of confusion or overwhelm
  • Explain additional organ donation, one organ at a time
  • Respect previously established donation limits
  • Rebuild rapport while exploring expanded donation
Program

Donation Advocate

Target Audience

Donation Advocates

Scenario Type

Family Member

Clinical Context

Pediatric Brain Death, Donation Expansion

Registry Status

Non-Registered

Difficulty

3

Experience Level

Developing

Emotional Intensity

High

Conversation Style

Health Literacy, Donation Expansion

Essential
Sim
Elements

Meet the simulation speaker

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Brenda Coleman

Family member, Mother
Brenda Coleman has authorized donation of her four-year-old son’s heart and believes that gift is complete. When the advocate returns to discuss additional organs and tissues, complex language quickly overwhelms her.
PO Box 1409, Erie, CO, 80516-1409
Phone number: 866-433-4276
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