Over the past 18 months, organ donation has been a central focus of our Kaiser Permanente Roseville ICU Ethics Committee. Through extensive review and collaboration, we developed ethics-based education initiatives and hosted multiple events to raise staff awareness and engagement. In 2024, the ICU had one organ donor. Thanks to the dedication of our committee and staff, in 2025 the team supported seven.

This remarkable increase is the result of consistent, timely referral calls and a shared commitment to honoring every potential donor. To further support this work, we hosted several impactful events, including a Memorial Flag Raising Ceremony that featured powerful stories from donor families and recipients. These moments not only honored the lives given but also inspired our team and community.

We also created an evidence-based policy tailored to our facility, outlining workflows for Donor Flag Raisings, Honor Walks, and Moments of Silence. These practices have significantly improved communication and enhanced the donation experience for families, staff, and recipients alike. This model is now being adopted by our Pediatric ICU team to expand its impact. Our timeliness in potential donor referrals has improved dramatically, from approximately 40% to over 90%, drawing attention from neighboring facilities.

We’ve shared our findings and best practices, helping others improve their outcomes as well.

Organ donation is truly a community effort. It supports families in their grief, strengthens staff morale, and ultimately saves lives. Our continued work has garnered recognition from the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Health Resources and Services Administration Donation Award. We remain committed to advancing this vital work and ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients and their families.