After you leave the hospital, you may need help in caring for yourself. Identify someone who can help you (a support person) and let the Transplant team know who that will be. You may have to do some of your daily care in a different way than before your surgery. Having a good support system and looking after your emotional and mental health will help with your recovery.
Appointments at the kidney transplant centre
After you leave the hospital, you’ll have appointments with your post-transplant team. These are usually at the transplant centre. You’ll also have blood tests done to see how well your new kidney is working. These appointments are usually 2 to 3 times each week for the first 6 weeks after your transplant. Each visit takes about 2 hours. After 6 weeks, you’ll likely have fewer appointments.
On the day of your appointments, get to the hospital early to get your blood tests done so your post-transplant team has your results before your appointment. Bring your medicines with you to your appointments. You’ll have to wait to take your medicines that day until after your blood tests are done. Because the appointments last a long time, you may also want to bring water and a snack.
Ask a friend or family member to come with you. They’ll be able to offer support and help you find your way to where you need to go at the hospital.
Care after your transplant
During your appointments in the first few weeks, the transplant team will also help you learn about how to take care of yourself after your transplant. You’ll meet with many different healthcare providers on your transplant team.
Learn more about what types of providers are on your
transplant team.
A lot happens at your follow-up appointments. It’s a good idea to have someone with you as a support at these visits. They can help you remember what was talked about and help with your adjustment to life after a transplant.
It’s important to be cautious in public places where you may be at higher risk of catching a cold, flu, or other type of infection.
Driving after your transplant
You won’t be able to drive for about 4 to 5 weeks after you leave the hospital while you heal. Ask friends or family to help you. You can also look for other ways to get to your appointments while you’re not able to drive. It’s also a good idea to have a back-up plan in case someone can’t drive you to your appointments.
Have a good support system
You’ll need help after you leave the hospital. Having a good support system is an important part of your recovery and well-being. Support people can help you with child or pet care, grocery shopping, cooking, and other day-to-day tasks. They can also be there to listen as you talk about what you’re feeling or going through.
Plan on having a support system and arrange for someone to stay with you for at least 1 to 2 weeks after you leave the hospital.
Don’t be afraid to ask family, friends, or other members of your community circle for help. The more people you have to help you, the better. Let your support people know what kinds of help you need and how often you’ll need their help. They can then plan for changes they may need to make to their schedule.
