Anyone Working in Organ Donation?

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I have spent the last couple hours reading past threads about it, but I wondered if anyone currently on the board works for any procurement organization? The one near me is DCI (they used to be the dialysis people) but I'm curious about careers in this noble and seemingly difficult field. I would like to help further the awareness of donation.

I'm soon to be an LPN student and they have had ads for procurement tech (or similar title), and LPN is one qualification, surprisingly. They have their own additional training, too, of course.

I am older (50) and a male and this could adversely affect some job opportunities, but I think my age could actually work in my favor if there was a position where one interacted with the families.

Thanks,

Tom

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Specializes in ICU.

While I am not in organ procurement I did have a pt several months ago that became an OPO pt and the family did decide to donate. I did get to go down with the pt and observe the surgery. I also stayed for the tissue and bone harvest. While I am glad I went and I learned a lot I will say watching the tissue and bone harvest was extremely gruesome. There were a few images it took a very long time to get passed. It may have been since I had him as a pt. I can't really tell you. If you do opt to apply just be prepared for some very gruesome tasks. Best of luck to you !

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Specializes in Neuro ICU and Med Surg.

I don't work for them either. Our agency in MI is gift of life. I love the OPO nurses. They are so informative. I have taken care of brain dead donors and DCD (donation after cardiac death) donors. It is a great experience. We sat with the family when the decision was made, then I continued ICU care to this pt right up until they went to the OR if it was on my shift. I didn't ever get the opportunity to go to the OR.

I know there are a lot of long hours and travelling in this field.

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Specializes in Neuro ICU and Med Surg.

I have only ever seen the RN's interact with families. As a tech you would most likely be working like a surgical tech in the OR.

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