Timely and Planned referrals to Gift of Life, Organ Procurement Organization, of patients who meet basic criteria for evaluation as a potential donor is critical for the evaluation process and family support. Late referrals cause conversations to families about the donation opportunity to be rushed and unplanned. Our focus for timely and planned referrals is in the trauma environment, as opportunities can be rare and transpire in an expedited manner.

This education provides details on the process from referral to recovery as needed in order to enhance the process and efficiency of the referral process in place. Teaching about the donation processes and the need for early referral will help the team to ultimately support the families going through the Organ donation process in both the DCD and Brain death environments.

This course is designed to aid staff in effective communication between all on the health care team, including the Transplant coordinators, related to timely referrals of donors and the care of patients through brain death and DCD.