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Detailed Needs and Requirements: Organ Transplant Unit
Diagnostic and treatment procedures are performed on the unit where
possible. Group discussions involving students, residents and other
technical persons are common. Diagnostic and treatment procedures
are performed on the unit where possible. Results of laboratory tests
should be available within four hours. Access to clinical laboratory
facilities should therefore be available for them on a 24-hour basis.
3. Nursing Staff
Continuous patient observation and intensive care will be required for
extended periods of time. Psychological pressures are considerable;
the rejection of a transplanted organ may have a severe impact on
staff morale. The environment should be such that the "intensity" of
the unit is diminished. In addition, the staff should have an area for
relaxation away from the direct pressures of patient care. Space for
change of shift conferences, consultation with physicians and for
inservice or student training programs should also be available.
Nurses' work areas should generally be acoustically isolated to avoid
patient disturbance and to provide privacy for confidential
conversations.
4. Trainees
Teaching programs will be similar to those of other intensive care units.
Closed circuit television should be used where possible to minimize
unnecessary traffic on the unit.
5. Supporting Staff
Staff activities will be similar to those of other intensive care units.
6. Visitors
Visitors are an important consideration on a transplant unit. They
maintain patient morale and, in the case of relatives, will provide an
important component of the required lifelong care.
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