The NJSRC Spring Conference was held for the first time at the NJ Sharing Network on April 29, during Organ Donation Month. The purpose of the conference was to bring awareness of the role of the RT in organ procurement, and featured an array of experts educating the attendees on this critical function.
Many RT’s who have worked in the ICU setting have had patients who are candidates for donation, and may not realize the importance their care has on keeping the lung viable for the recipient. Focusing on performing apnea tests safely and correctly, together with lung protective and recruitment strategies, it is clear the role of the RT goes beyond a quick vent check. The lung is the most fragile organ when it comes to procurement and the #1 goal of the RT managing the donor patient is to prevent atelectasis.
Over 70 respiratory therapists attended this event, which included breakfast and lunch and offered six CRCE units to the attendees. One of the many highlights of the day was a tour around the Sharing Network facility, which showcased many stories of both donors and recipients and is a remarkable place.
Some words from the attendees:
“I work in the ICU so this seminar made me value and look at end of life care differently”
“I was impressed with Mr. Hewitt’s presentation on how to have therapists get involved in the procurement process and the development of his protocol. The program was very impressive and really shed some light on the entire process – ventilation strategies in lung procurement (PC vs VC), therapists in the ECMO patient and increasing awareness in organ procurement in the hospital setting.”
“Wonderful presentations – learned a lot from all the speakers, learned a lot about the sharing network – thank you”
Special thank you to our vendors whose support helped make the conference possible:
- AtHome Medical
- Freedom Medical
- Major Medical
- Maquet
- Monaghan
- Sleep Circle
