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Basic description
The transplant nurse cares for recipient and living-donor patients throughout the transplantation process from end-stage disease processes to the preoperative, operative, and postoperative care. The transplant nurse is most often employed by the hospital with a transplant center. Practice roles can include nurse practitioner, case manager, transplant coordinator, research nurse, organ procurement nurse, and clinical specialist.
Educational requirements
Registered nurse preparation is required; Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing is often preferred.
Core competencies/skills needed
■ Knowledge of transplant processes
■ Excellent communication skills
■ Teaching skills
■ Knowledge of high-tech treatments
■ Sensitivity in dealing with emotional and ethical issues
■ Technological skills
■ Ability to work with interdisciplinary team
Related Web sites and professional organizations
■ International Transplant Nurses Society (www.itns.org/)
■ International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (www.ishlt.org/)