Each patient can expect to undergo a series of comprehensive tests that will be conducted by a multidisciplinary team of specialists. Many of these tests are required for any operative procedure, (history, physical, chest X-ray, EKG, etc.) while others are required specifically for transplantation surgery. Once the evaluation is complete, an extensive team or board review is conducted to determine if transplantation is the optimum treatment.
Transplant Coordinators
Patients are empowered when they have ample information and someone to personally guide them through the transplant experience. Each patient is assigned a highly trained transplant coordinator. These caring individuals guide patients and their families through the well planned, yet complex road to recovery. Transplant coordinators are always available to assist patients, beginning with the initial referral and throughout the life-long transplant process. Special education sessions guide the patient and family through the transplant process. These educational programs are structured to help everyone involved fully understand… - What it means to be on the transplant or donor match waiting list
- The different patient status classifications on the waiting list
- The enormous gift of life from donors and their families
- Responsibilities and obligations of the patient
- Concerns surrounding current medical status
- What happens when the patient gets a call for a transplant
- Emotional preparation for the surgery or procedure
- Post-operative period, infection, rejection and medications
- Recovery, therapy and ongoing care
Discharge and long-term patient management
Following the transplant experience, the patient progresses from the ICU to the hospital unit where the nurses are credentialed to care for transplant patients. Upon discharge from the hospital, the patient is closely monitored in transplant outpatient clinics for the first tree months and monthly for the first post-transplant year. Long-term follow-up after the first year varies, depending on the type of transplant. The transplant team provides the referring physician, patient and family specific information regarding post-transplant care.
Immunosuppressive medication
Transplantation has become successful in recent years because of improved anti-rejection drug therapy. It is necessary for patients to take immunosuppressive drugs for the rest of their lives following transplant. Patient selection must include a careful examination of the patient’s ability to take these medicines responsibly. The MUSC pharmacology team works closely with MUSC physicians to develop each patient’s drug protocol. They also provide extensive education to ensure that each patient understands the medication regime and the importance of taking it regularly. In Charleston
Careful monitoring of the patient occurs following inpatient discharge and prior to returning home. The MUSC transplant team works with area hotels and apartments that offer discounts to assist patients and families as they make the transition from the hospital experience to life at home.
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