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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
06:26
Pre-clinical Model of Cardiac Donation after Circulatory Death
Published on: August 2, 2019
Cardiac dysrhythmias during donor care
David J Powner1, Teresa A Allison
1The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, USA.
Progress in Transplantation (Aliso Viejo, Calif.)
|May 9, 2006
Summary
Organ procurement coordinators frequently encounter cardiac dysrhythmias in donors, affecting 15-50%. Effective, short-acting medications are crucial for managing these rhythm disturbances and supporting donor hemodynamics.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Transplantation Medicine
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Cardiac dysrhythmias (arrhythmias) are common in organ donors, occurring in 15% to 50% of cases.
- These rhythm disturbances can arise before, during, or after cardiac arrest.
- Effective management is vital for maintaining donor stability and organ viability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review available data on cardiac dysrhythmias in organ donors.
- To describe specific arrhythmias encountered during donor care.
- To provide evidence-based treatment recommendations for organ procurement coordinators.
Main Methods:
- A PubMed search was conducted to identify relevant publications.
- Data from selected articles were reviewed.
- Treatment recommendations were formulated based on American Heart Association guidelines.
Main Results:
- Various cardiac dysrhythmias are frequently observed in organ donors.
- Treatment decisions must consider the specific arrhythmia and its hemodynamic impact.
- Short-acting medications are preferred for managing donor arrhythmias.
Conclusions:
- Organ procurement coordinators require knowledge of cardiac dysrhythmias and their management.
- Adherence to established guidelines ensures optimal donor care.
- Timely and appropriate treatment of arrhythmias can improve organ procurement outcomes.
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