New nurse to boost organ donations at Princess Alexandra
By Web Reporter


A SPECIALIST nurse has been appointed at Princess Alexandra Hospital to boost organ donation.

 

Daina Mayo has been assigned to work at the hospital as part of her role with NHS Blood and Transplant, the health authority that co-ordinates blood transfusion and organ transplant.

Spending the majority of her time in intensive care and the emergency department of the Harlow hospital, Daina will work with medical teams and patients’ families to offer the option for organ donation and support them through their decision.

“Research shows that the earlier an organ donation specialist is involved, the higher the consent rate by families,” she said.

 

“I will be working with consultants and NHS Blood and Transplant to identify patients and then speak to the families. It is a difficult and sensitive time and my role is to ensure families are well supported in the decision they make.”

Donation rates in the UK are among the lowest in the developed world. A national target has been set to increase donations by 50 per cent by 2013.

Dr Pete Bishop, clinical lead for organ donation, said: “There are over 8,000 people in the UKwaiting for an organ and on average three die each day waiting for a transplant.

“As transplantation techniques progress, more and more people are suitable as donors and by raising awareness among clinical staff, patients and their families we can really make a difference, and Daina’s role is vital to that.”


First time donors should be aged 17 to 65, weigh at least 50kg (7st 12lbs) and be in general good health. To book an appointment, call the donor line on 0300 123 23 23, or visit www.blood.co.uk.