Mary Kay Schwemmer

Brief Bio

Alliance Presentations

Human Brain Stroke Illustration.

Navigating Objections to Brain Death Declaration in a Family-Centered Environment

Tuesday, November 30, 2021, at 3:00pm

Understanding Death by Neurological Criteria (Brain Death) is challenging, especially for families processing the loss of their loved ones. That said, it is not uncommon for families of patients exhibiting signs of brain death to react to the prognosis with denial. This discussion will highlight two cases where the healthcare and OPO teams were faced with family objection to Brain Death declaration. The first case will examine protocols implemented to address family objections that took place before testing has started, and the second will examine protocols implemented where objections occurred after the patient was declared brain dead. We will be joined by a multidisciplinary panel of professionals who will share insights and offer strategies from their unique perspectives.

Lifelong Networks

Our partners are the heart and soul of our organization. For more than 15 years, they have played a vital role providing quality education and programs to advance a shared mission.