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Amy J. Markowitz, JD; Stephen J. McPhee, MD

JAMA. 2006;296:1393.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

On June 14, 2006, Truog et al¹ presented the case of an 18-month-old toddler, Lindy, who was brought to the hospital with severe head injury after being struck by a car. In caring for children who become suddenly and catastrophically ill, clinicians must simultaneously attend to the complex and rapidly evolving medical situation, as well as to the equally important task of establishing compassionate relationships with family members and communicating well with colleagues. Lindy's condition evolved from prognostic uncertainty to the diagnosis of brain death, and ultimately, the decision to donate her organs. The clinicians established a trusting bond with family members as they navigated the medical and emotional pathways attendant to this traumatic event. This case illustrates the importance of interdisciplinary communication, the vital role of social workers and others with expertise in working with families in crisis, as well as . . . [Full Text of this Article]