Educating & Preparing Dialysis Patients for Transplantation Nicole M. Pinkerton, MA, MFT Consultant, Development & Education

Advantages of Transplantation Better quality of life - freedom from dialysis Avoid long-term complications of dialysis Higher energy levels Less dietary and fluid restrictions

Research has shown… …the less time on dialysis the better the transplant results

Difficulty Accessing Some have difficulty accessing transplantation  Lack of information about transplantation  Not referred to transplant center  Common to emotions Denial Anger Fear Depression Anxiety

Transplant Process The Transplant Process can be overwhelming  Evaluation requires doctor’s visits and follow-up  Long wait time for an organ  A transplanted organ requires constant self-care Often patients struggle going through the process, however, education and support can help.

The Reality Takes time to adjust Adjustment period can be difficult Knowing what to expect can help Being prepared can make the adjustment easier

Comprehensive Education is Needed to: Help patients gain access to transplantation Allow patients to make an informed decision about what is best for them Help patients navigate through the process Be prepared in what to expect and how to care for a transplant

One-on-One Kidney Transplant Education Program  Designed to meet the needs of the individual  Provided at dialysis center during dialysis  For patients, by recipients – shared experience  Listen and provide support  Education given a little each time over a couple of months

Evaluations show success Increase access to transplantation Inform about all aspects of transplantation Increase in being proactive in caring for health Consideration of living donation Better understanding of what to expect More hopeful about future

How To Learn More Transplant Evaluation and Doctor’s Appointments Educational Materials Seminars, Conferences, and Support Groups Nonprofit Organizations Internet How to Learn More about Transplantation and Resource Handouts are available after presentation

In Summary Dialysis Patients benefit from:  Education about treatment options  Getting Support  Communicating with healthcare professionals and peers  Being Motivated to care for self

Sincere Thanks! For more information about transplantation, contact: Nicole Pinkerton, MA, MFT Mendez National Institute of Transplantation ext 170