Clinical Responder

Summary:

The Clinical Responder role is responsible for performing in-depth evaluation of potential donors. This includes comprehensive chart reviews using various electronic health records (EHRs), on-site huddles with the healthcare team, and referral management leading up to donation. They work collaboratively with the healthcare team to optimize each potential donor through donor management goals. On occasion, they will support families and approach for donation. Additional responsibilities include performing case start duties for organ cases and accurately documenting all clinical activity. The Clinical Responder works closely with on-call team members and leadership to triage each referral appropriately. Travel within the designated service areas (DSA) may be required.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities:

Communication Inform hospital staff on the progression of referral process and provide clinical updates to relevant stakeholders. Provide emotional support and expertise in donation process for donor families and utilize STA staff or hospital resources, as needed. Time Management Collaborate with healthcare teams to develop a plan for referral management from initial referral through declaration of death and DCD evaluation. Perform donor physical assessments. Obtain, label, and package blood for tissue typing and infectious disease testing. Attend and successfully complete STA training programs covering referral evaluation, family support, and case start procedures. Attention to Detail Conduct detailed chart reviews using HER systems and determine medical suitability in conjunction with other clinical personnel. Understand and accurately maintain donor information and documentation. Accurately complete all required documentation in internal systems and hospitals EHRs, ensuring compliance and traceability. Problem-Solving Assess hemodynamic stability and develop strategies in conjunction with STA clinical staff to maintain organ function. Collaborate with Hospital Services for Death Record Review. Provide clinical training and education to hospital staff as requested by the Hospital Services department. Work with hospitals, staff, and the public to ensure the appropriate patients and families are provided with the opportunity of donation. Performs other job-related duties as assigned that are consistent with the purpose of the role.

Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:

Associate's degree in allied or health science is required. A combination of alternative education and experience may be considered in lieu of the formal education requirements. Licensed Registered Nurse, LVN, RRT, or Paramedic is preferred. Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification is required. Experience in critical care participating in multidisciplinary care teams or critical care huddles is required. Current Driver's License is required and maintained with an acceptable driving record as defined by STA policy.

Compliance:

This position is classified as OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Category I. Employees in this role routinely perform job duties that may involve direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM). Appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required at all times. Employees will receive mandatory training on bloodborne pathogens, safe work practices, and proper PPE usage. Employees must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, accreditation requirements, and organizational policies. This role requires compliance with HIPAA and all confidentiality standards related to patient, donor, employee, and organizational information. Employees must safeguard all confidential information and disclose it only as permitted by law and organizational policy.

Other:

Southwest Transplant Alliance maintains a policy of nondiscrimination with employees and applicants for employment. No aspect of employment will be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other basis prohibited by statute. In addition to federal law requirements, STA complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the STA has staff.

Disclaimer:

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Job duties may change at any time with or without notice. Nothing in this description constitutes a contract of employment, and employment remains at-will.