NURSES AND THE PROCESS OF ORGAN AND TISSUE HARVESTING: A BIBLIOGRAPHIC RESEARCH

Abstract

This study was a bibliographic research on the role of nurses in the process of organ and tissue procurement for transplantation. Its objectives were: to point out the role of nurses in the process of organ and tissue harvesting; to demonstrate the relationship established between nurses and family members of potential donors and to describe the care that should be performed by the nursing team with the brain-dead patient. Bibliographic, exploratory, descriptive research, with a qualitative approach. The survey of scientific articles was carried out on the CAPES Periodic Portal and BIREME. The following descriptors were used: "nurse" and "organ and tissue harvesting". A total of 53 studies were selected between 2012 and 2024. The results of the research allowed us to perceive that nurses have a fundamental role in the process of organ and tissue harvesting, from the identification of the potential donor to the donation itself. That these professionals must be physically and emotionally prepared to deal with family members of potential donors and their possible resistance, establishing a relationship of trust and respect. It was also possible to observe that the nursing team, after the confirmation of brain death, must have in-depth theoretical and practical knowledge to provide safe and effective care to these patients. It was concluded that moments of in-service education are essential for the training of these professionals, in which the team develops skills and competencies to establish a quality care plan with patients who will be able to donate their organs and tissues, saving lives.