This is the life-death decision that every Australian needs to make, but these inherent misunderstandings cast a shadow over our judgment.
Myth 1: I used to register with my driver's license
Ticking that box when you apply for a driver's license does not guarantee that you are a registered donor now. The system was made change a few years ago, and unless you live in South Australia (which is the only state to retain the system), your donation wishes are no longer recorded.
Some states do transfer this information, but it's best to check your current status. This is a simple step. Log in to Mygov's Medicare account-you can see your status by simply entering the Medicare account. If you are not sure, you can re-register at donatelife.gov.au/news.
Myth # 2: I smoke and drink. No one wants my organs.
Almost everyone can donate their organs and tissues. You should not assume that you are not healthy enough. Only a limited number of diseases can prevent you from becoming a donor, such as an infectious disease such as HIV.
The main obstacle to your donation is how you died. Need to die in hospital and only after being declared brain or circulatory death, that is, the heart and lungs stop working.
The truth is that organ donation is only possible in 2% of all hospital deaths. Last year, only 1093 Australian families were asked to consider organ donation.
There are fewer restrictions on eye and tissue donation. They can donate within 24 hours of death, regardless of where they die.
Misunderstanding # 3: I'm too old
There is no age limit for organ donation, although certain organs, such as the heart, cannot be used if the donor is too old.
"kidneys can be donated even if they are over 80." Helen Opdam, director of national medical care at the organ and tissue donation agency, said.
"it depends on one's health. Can be a 70-year-old but very healthy person, sometimes 50-year-old but not so healthy. "
More than 70, 80 people donated their kidneys, liver and lungs.
"Don't rule yourself out," Dr. Opdam said. "if you're likely to donate when you die-then it's appropriate or not to decide."
Myth 4: if the doctor knew that I was a donor, he would no longer do his best to save me
The first priority for the medical staff is your life. Organ donation will be considered only if it is declared dead or irreparable.
The heart must stop beating or must be declared brain-dead when the blood supply stops and the function stops. This is not the same thing as a coma. This must be confirmed by two doctors in hospital ICU.
Misunderstanding 5: violation of religion
In fact, most religions support organ donation, including Catholicism, Islam Church, Jehovah's Witness, Judaism, Greek Orthodox Church, Presbyterian Church, Seventh Day Christian Prosperity, Buddhism and United Church. If you are not sure, please contact your religious mentor.
Myth 6: the family will not be able to see the remains
Organ and tissue donation does not give the physical appearance of the body of change. If the family wants them to still be able to see the body.
Myth 7: I don't want my organs or tissues for medical research.
Donated organs and tissues will never be used for medical research unless the family has written permission.
Myth 8: people need organs only when they have bad lifestyle choices
Many people have genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis, cardiomyopathy, and biliary atresia. Without organ transplants, these diseases can cause death, usually in the early stages of life.
Corneal transplants allow people to regain their vision after a disease or injury. Heart valves are also used to repair congenital defects in young children.
Misunderstanding 9: I don't want to get into trouble
It will only take a few minutes to sign in for organ donation registration in Australia, and only your Medicare number will be required.
Myth 10: I don't need to talk to anyone.
Registration is important, but you also need to inform your family that your wishes are respected. Even if you register as a donor, it is only possible if your family agrees.
Of those registered, 10 per cent of their families refused to donate organs to the deceased. This may be because they are not sure how their loved ones feel.