Ethical Considerations in the Psychosocial Evaluation of Pediatric Organ Transplant Candidates, Recipients and Their Families

Abstract

This chapter will consider psychosocial aspects of pediatric organ transplantation for transplant candidates (those being considered for listing), organ recipients, and their families-including living related donors. We will outline an ethical approach to considering several questions: How ought mental health issues (for patient and caregiver), substance use, and assessment of available psychosocial support structures play into decisions about organ transplant candidacy in pediatrics? How should medical teams address problems with a parent's psychological function or coping skills when the child's transplant candidacy is threatened? What are the psychological sequelae of transplantation for children and adolescents and how do they affect medical decision-making?