Use of Human Anatomical Material

POLICY NO:8007

EFFECTIVE DATE: 08/10/05

REVISED DATE: 08/10/05

REVIEWED DATE: 08/10/05

Appropriate Use of Human Anatomical Material Policy

Purpose

The purpose of the Appropriate Use of Human Anatomical Material Policy is (1) to establish guidelines to account for all human anatomical material from deceased individuals during initial procurement and use through proper disposal/disposition;(2) to ensure that use of human anatomical material meets Uniform Anatomical Gift Act, OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard, and other state and federal regulatory standards for the safe and ethical treatment of human anatomical material; (3) to ensure proper handling of human anatomical material; and (4) to protect individuals handling or transporting human anatomical material/specimens from potential exposure to blood and/or body fluids. The Compliance Officer of the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) shall be responsible for implementing and monitoring compliance with this policy.

Background

The Uniform Anatomical Gift Act regulates the donation of dead bodies or parts of bodies for transplantation, education and research. There are three types of anatomical gifts: tissue donation including blood, organ donation and whole body donation. The Nebraska State Anatomical Board, located at UNMC, is responsible for the Body Donation Program for the State of Nebraska. UNMC shall follow guidelines set by the Nebraska State Anatomical Board for the use of human anatomical material.

The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) Bloodborne Pathogen Standard (BBP) specifies precautions that shall be observed to prevent contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials. Precautions include use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and implementing engineering and work practice controls. Staff shall follow BBP standards when handling human anatomical material.

Definitions

Human Anatomical Material means entire human body or body segment (part) from a deceased individual.

Human body segment (part) means a portion of a whole body separated for the purposes of study, evaluation, education or research. Body segments consist of contiguous mixed tissues whose relationships have been altered only at the dissection boundaries.

Decedent identification number of origin means identification number which was assigned to donor at time of death and which is ultimately traceable to a certified death certificate.