What initial step must occur in the organ donation process?

The initial step in the organ donation process is the referral of potential donors. This action involves notifying an organ procurement organization, such as Carolina Donor Services, when a patient meets specific medical criteria for organ donation. Early identification is crucial because it enables timely evaluation and management of the potential donor's situation, maximizing the possibility of successful organ recovery.

Referral typically occurs in clinical settings, often when a patient is declared brain dead or has suffered irreversible cardiac arrest. The organ procurement organization then becomes involved to guide the next steps, including obtaining consent from the donor's family, performing medical evaluations, and eventually facilitating the organ allocation process. By prioritizing the referral, the healthcare team ensures that all subsequent actions can be conducted in an organized manner, adhering to the critical time constraints associated with organ viability.