Certified Clinical Transplant Nurse (CCTN) Practice Exam

A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 10 or more indicates a degree of consciousness and neurological function that suggests the patient may not be an appropriate candidate for organ donation. Typically, lower GCS scores—particularly scores of 8 or less—are more indicative of a brain-dead state, which is a critical consideration for organ donation eligibility. In contrast, other scenarios, such as a family decision to withdraw care, neurological injury or insult, and the absence of two or more brainstem reflexes, are recognized clinical triggers that may prompt organ donor referral. These conditions demonstrate a significant decline in neurologic function or a decision to discontinue life-sustaining treatments, making them vital points of consideration for potential organ donation. Thus, the GCS of 10 or more does not represent a situation that would typically lead to a referral for organ donation, as it suggests the patient retains some level of brain function, contrary to the criteria for organ donation referrals.