What can you expect after you have received your transplant?

• You will be admitted to the Transplant Acute Care Unit (TACU) after your recovery room period
• A private room will be provided
• A nasogastric (NG) tube will be in place and will be connected to suction until bowel function returns (about 2-4 days)
• You will not have anything to eat or drink until the NG suction is discontinued
• A central line IV will be inserted prior to surgery for providing specific medications and to monitor fluid status
• More than one IV bag will be hanging
• Vital signs are frequently monitored
• How much you take in and put out will be closely monitored and measured
• An IV insulin infusion will be hanging during surgery and is usually stopped while in the recovery room. The insulin infusion is used to maintain glucose levels
• The infusion is usually short-term and may be discontinued in the recovery room.
• The target glucose / blood sugar is < 150
• A foley catheter is inserted in the operating room to maintain pressure off the bladder and to monitor urine output
• A pulse oximeter is placed over a finger or ear lobe to measure your oxygen level
• You will need to be up and walking soon after surgery in order to decrease your risk for pneumonia and blood clots
• Use of an incentive spirometer and coughing and deep breathing also assists in decreasing postoperative complications
• Pain medication will be provided as needed
• Daily weight will be done to monitor fluid status
• A heart monitor will be attached to your chest
• Blood glucose levels will be frequently monitored
• Daily (or more frequent) lab draws are done
• Intensive teaching is provided to increase your knowledge and understanding
• The average length of stay (without complications) is 5-7 days

Activity limitations include:

• No driving, heavy lifting, or showers until approved by the physician
• Clinic visits are initially 2-3 times per week after discharge
• About 50% of patients require readmission during the first 6 months post discharge