Transplant Team
There will be many people involved in your transplant and all have a common goal: a successful transplant for you. They will look to you to take an active part in your own health care. It is most important that you share your thoughts and concerns with them, as they are more than willing to help you. Listed below are members of the team and their roles:
Transplant Surgeons
The transplant surgeon evaluates potential recipients and performs the actual transplant operation. You will see the transplant surgeon during your hospitalization as well as for follow-up visits after your surgery. Along with your nephrologist, the transplant surgeon will check test results and adjust medication.
The donor transplant surgeon evaluates potential living donors and performs the actual kidney removal surgery. The living donor will see the donor transplant surgeon during their hospitalization following donation as well as for follow-up visits.
Nephrologist
The nephrologist may be the one who first referred you to the transplant program. This kidney physician is responsible for your care in the hospital before and after your surgery. While you are hospitalized, the nephrologist will examine you daily, check your test results, and adjust your medication as needed.
In most cases, the nephrologist will continue to monitor your progress after discharge from the hospital. Be sure to alert your physician to any change in the way you feel, no matter how insignificant. And remember — your physician expects you to ask questions, so don't be shy!
Transplant Program and Laboratory Manager
The Transplant Manager is responsible for daily administrative and operational functions of the Transplant Program as well as strategic planning.
Transplant Coordinator
The coordinators, usually registered nurses, will work closely with you before, during, and after your hospitalization. They will see you through the evaluation process and assist with scheduling pre-transplant testing. If you are awaiting a cadaveric kidney, a coordinator will contact you when one becomes available.
A coordinator will follow you through your hospitalization and give you discharge instruction. After you leave the hospital, coordinators monitor your laboratory test results and your immunosuppressive medication dose.
HLA Laboratory Scientists
HLA technologists are the behind-the-scenes staff in the tissue typing laboratory. They perform the necessary testing to allow you to receive a well-matched kidney for transplant.
Social Worker/Financial Advisor
The social worker can put you in touch with community services that will make life easier for you and your family, and advise you about Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurance coverage.
The social worker can act as a counselor or put you in touch with a qualified person for help with emotional and social needs, as well as family matters. It is important to communicate your feelings to a professional who can help you and your family deal with all that is happening. Frank discussion may help you cope with your transplant experience and with the changes it will make in your life.
Your social worker will determine your needs and help you understand and cope with basic problems associated with your illness.
Office Manager
The office manager will contact you after receiving an initial referral from your nephrologist. The office manager will obtain your demographic information, send you a packet of information about transplantation and schedule your pretransplant evaluation if and when you are ready to proceed.
Dietitians
Dietitians evaluate your dietary needs as a transplant patient. They will educate you on proper diet and nutrition considering the medications that you are taking.
Hospital Staff Nurses
These nurses will be your caregivers when you are admitted to the hospital for your transplant. They have been trained in renal transplant care.