Certified Clinical Transplant Nurse (CCTN) Practice Exam

The term "DCD" stands for Donor Circulatory Death. This terminology is critical in transplant coordination as it refers to a specific category of organ donation where the donor has suffered a permanent cessation of circulatory and respiratory functions. This typically occurs when a patient experiences a fatal injury or illness and does not meet the criteria for brain death. In DCD scenarios, organ retrieval occurs shortly after the declaration of death.

Understanding DCD is essential for transplant nurses and coordinators, as it impacts the protocol for organ recovery and the timing of the procedures. Careful assessment and management ensure that the organs can be retrieved for transplantation while maintaining viability. Knowledge of this process also highlights the importance of ethical considerations and protocols that must be followed to respect the wishes of the donor's family and comply with legal guidelines. This understanding ultimately supports effective communication within the transplant team and with the donor's family, facilitating a smooth donation process.