Melissa Zehner
Kearney
Summary
Experienced Organ Preservation Specialist II with a demonstrated history of success in assisting surgeons with organ recovery and preservation at a leading organ procurement organization. Proficient in all aspects of organ procurement, preservation methods, and transport logistics. Skilled in collaborating with transplant teams, hospital staff and recovering surgeons to ensure optimal outcomes for lifesaving organ donations. Adaptable and detail-oriented professional committed to upholding the highest standards of organ preservation and transplantation to positively impact the lives of patients in need. I would like to work in a healthy environment that appreciates my skills and offers avenues for growth.
Experienced with managing patient care coordination and organ transplant processes. Utilizes strong organizational and communication skills to ensure efficient and compliant transplant procedures. Knowledge of regulatory standards and best practices in transplant coordination.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Transplant Coordinator
Transplant Coordinators of America
08.2024 - Current
- Facilitated patient evaluations and managed organ allocation processes to optimize transplant efficiency.
- Developed and maintained relationships with transplant centers and healthcare providers for seamless communication.
- Implemented protocols for donor management and recipient matching, enhancing operational efficiency.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to streamline workflows and enhance patient support services.
- Managed complex transplant cases, ensuring timely and accurate completion of all required documentation.
- Enhanced transplant coordination by streamlining communication among multidisciplinary teams.
- Facilitated efficient organ allocation by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of UNOS policies and procedures.
- Review donor offers via UNOS to determine eligibility in collaboration with Transplant Surgeon
- Communicate with Surgeons regarding patient status
- Coordinate patient admissions prior to transplant
Organ Preservation Specialist II
Midwest Transplant Network
Mission, Kansas
01.2013 - 08.2024
- Skilled in monitoring and maintaining organ perfusion systems, analyzing data to make real-time adjustments for successful preservation
- Collaborate with transplant surgeons and medical staff to develop customized organ preservation protocols according to specific patient needs
- Train and mentor Organ Preservation Specialist team members on best practices and the latest advancements in organ preservation techniques
- Assisted surgeons during organ procurement by directly assisting abdominal surgeons and occasionally thoracic surgeons
- Demonstrated proficiency in handling medical equipment, implementing infection control protocols, and adhering to HIPAA regulations
- Collaborated with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes
- Participated in continuous training and education to stay updated on best practices and advancements in organ donation and transplantation protocols
- Ability to navigate and utilize UNOS and True North platforms
- Developed preservation protocols ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices.
- Conducted routine evaluations of preserved tissues, ensuring optimal quality for transplant procedures.
Surgical Recovery Coordinator
Life Alliance Organ Recovery Agency
Miami, Florida
10.2003 - 12.2012
- Facilitated the organ recovery process by coordinating communication between hospitals, recovery teams, and transplant centers.
- Monitored organ allocation and distribution processes to optimize organ utilization for transplant candidates on waiting lists
- Oversaw daily operations, including scheduling, inventory management, and customer service, ensuring efficient and seamless workflow.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations and provided feedback to team members to facilitate professional growth and development.
Education
Surgical Technology -
Sheridan Vocational Technical Center
Hollywood, Florida08.2003
Licensed Practical Nurse - Practical Nursing
McFatter Technical Center
Davie, FloridaHigh School Diploma - undefined
Hollywood Hills High School
06.1997
Skills
- Healthcare regulations
- Medical aid
- Cross-functional coordination
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Reliability
- Multitasking Abilities
- Excellent communication
- HIPAA compliance
- Adaptability and flexibility
Certification
- Licensed Practical Nurse McFatter Technical Center License Number: PN 5145589, (Florida)
- Surgical Technology Sheridan Vocational Technical Center
- Certified Transplant Preservationist American Board of Transplant Certification
Timeline
Transplant Coordinator
Transplant Coordinators of America
08.2024 - Current
Organ Preservation Specialist II
Midwest Transplant Network
01.2013 - 08.2024
Surgical Recovery Coordinator
Life Alliance Organ Recovery Agency
10.2003 - 12.2012
Licensed Practical Nurse - Practical Nursing
McFatter Technical Center
High School Diploma - undefined
Hollywood Hills High School
Surgical Technology -
Sheridan Vocational Technical Center