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The Role of a Nurse in Organ Donation

In the last several decades, organ transplants have served as life-saving surgeries. According to the New York State Nurses Association, quoting statistics from 2004, approximately 70 individuals receive an organ transplant each day. Nurses play a vital role in organ donation by educating the community, identifying donors and offering clinical expertise.

  1. Education

    • The role of a nurse in organ donation begins with community education. As the need for donors increases, nurses are responsible for providing the public with information about donating organs. Nurses present workshops at community centers, schools and hospitals, focused on the need for organ donation, the process of an organ transplant and the risks associated with surgery.

    Identification

    • Nurses work closely with organizations, health care facilities and tissue banks to identify organ donors and ensure suitable matches for terminally-ill patients in need of transplants. Patients consult with nurses to identify characteristics needed for organ donation, such as blood type. In addition, nurses counsel potential organ donors and their families to identify risks associated with transplants.

    Expertise

    • The decision to donate an organ or undergo a transplant is not a decision families take lightly. Nurses provide reassurance, resources and advice for patients seeking and considering organ transplants. Often, nurses provide emotional support for patients and families and refer them to support groups and educational resources appropriate to their situation.

    Patient Care

    • During the organ donation process, nurses also provide medical care. At medical facilities, nurses check vital signs, monitor blood pressure, pulse and temperature, monitor IV fluids and administer medication. The role of a nurse in organ donation includes responding to emergency medical situations and assisting physicians and surgeons during organ transplants.

    Patient Advocate

    • A nurse serves as an advocate for patients during the organ donation process. Not only do nurses recognize and respect a patient’s cultural and religious beliefs, they also advocate for the comfort of each patient. While at a medical facility, nurses report symptoms and potential dangers to physicians to ensure that each patient’s voice is heard.

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