Date of Conferral

8-13-2026

Date of Award

August 2026

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Leslie Barnes-Young

Abstract

Professionals in organ and tissue recovery have complex job roles that affect the outcomes of patients who wait for a life-saving organ or a life-enhancing tissue graft. This profession had little research regarding burnout, compassion fatigue, and secondary trauma, as well as how consistent involvement with deceased patients affects these professionals and the outcomes of their cases. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of 11 organ and tissue recovery professionals (OTRPs). Constructivist self-development theory was applied to understand OTRPs’ lived experiences of compassion fatigue, secondary trauma, and burnout, as well as the impact of working with deceased patients. Findings revealed five themes: secondary trauma and exposure to death and dying, burnout and emotional exhaustion, compassion fatigue, purpose and fulfillment, and organizational support and systemic challenges. Participants described frequent exposure to traumatic experiences and significant emotional demands, along with a sense of purpose created by their work. Participants’ experiences and management of occupational stress were influenced by organizational factors. Social change implications include improvements in support and resources for these professionals, which may contribute to significant social benefits for the patient’s awaiting organ or tissue transplants. Reduced error rates may increase the number of successful transplants performed, enhance productivity, and expedite the transplantation process, benefiting not only recipients but also their families.

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