Organ Recovery & Preservation Study Guide (2026 Edition)

Allocation and recovery can feel like a maze of match runs, scores, policies, OR details, packaging rules, and transportation deadlines. This guide brings those pieces together into one practical case workflow.

Written specifically for Organ Procurement Coordinators, the guide explains not only what the rules mean, but what the Coordinator should check, communicate, document, and do next. Technical concepts are translated into plain language and connected to realistic decisions that happen during an active donor case.

Inside, you will learn how to:

• Verify donor information before running a match.
• Follow the correct allocation sequence and respond when information changes.
• Understand lung CAS, KDPI, EPTS, MELD/PELD, and heart status without getting lost in the numbers.
• Coordinate DBD and controlled DCD recovery plans.
• Protect role boundaries during withdrawal, comfort care, and death declaration.
• Prepare for NRP and confirm essential safeguards.
• Lead the recovery huddle and communicate unexpected findings.
• Protect sterility, preservation, and ischemic-time documentation.
• Package, label, double-check, track, and transport recovered organs.
• Respond when an organ is declined after recovery.
• Complete every handoff before closing the case.

The 27-page guide includes bedside checklists, quick-reference tables, a realistic case that changes from allocation through transport, 54 study questions, and a consolidated answer key with practical explanations.

Aligned with the ABTC CPTC blueprint effective July 1, 2026, and reviewed against current policy in August 2026.

Best for: CPTC candidates, new Organ Procurement Coordinators, experienced Coordinators refreshing allocation and recovery knowledge, and OPO educators supporting supervised training.

This independent educational resource supports CPTC examination preparation and professional development. It does not guarantee a passing score, replace OPO-specific training or policies, establish independent clinical competency, or imply endorsement by the American Board for Transplant Certification.