Heart Center

Transplantation

Medications

Before your discharge, your nurse will bring you a list of your medications, as ordered by your physician. You will be given instructions regarding the dosage, schedule, and possible side effects. Particular attention will be paid to your anti-rejection medication, as it is extremely important for these medications to be taken correctly. You will be taking many medications, so a pharmacist will work with you to establish a schedule.


Diet

You should follow a low-salt, low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. Ask to see a dietitian before your discharge if you have questions. Otherwise, you will be provided with some recommendations for decreasing fat and cholesterol intake. In addition, you will be given instructions regarding preparation of fresh fruits and vegetables. It will be important for these foods to be washed and cleaned thoroughly before eating to reduce the risk of bacteria.


Activity

Your physician will give you specific instructions regarding your activity level. It is important to follow these instructions, even if you are feeling well enough that you think you can do more. In addition, you should not do any lifting until your physician advises you to do so.


Sexual Activity

Your physician will give you specific instructions regarding sexual activity. Ask your physician if you need additional information, or have questions or concerns.


Bath Care

Showers are usually allowed by the time you go home, if not sooner. Wash normally with soap and water, but do not apply unusual pressure at the incision sites on your chest. Pat dry instead of rubbing the skin around the site. Avoid tub baths for a week, as they may increase your chance of infection at the incision site.


Site Care

Clean your incisions every day with soap and water only. After taking a shower, gently pat dry the area of the incisions. Do not use any powders, lotions, or oils on your incisions until they are well healed. Generally, healing takes several weeks.


Driving a Vehicle

Your physician will give you more specific information as to when you may resume driving.


Returning to Work

Ask your physician when your will be able to return to work. The nature of your occupation, your overall health status, and your progress will determine how soon you may return to work.


Office Visit

Your physician will advise you when you need to schedule a follow-up appointment. After discharge, you will be followed closely for approximately six months with biopsies and clinic visits. Your physician will determine your follow-up appointment schedule.


Daily Weight

You will need to weigh yourself every day, at the same time of day, and in the same kind of clothes. If you gain 2 to 3 pounds or more over a 24-hour period, notify your physician. Also, note if you have swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles.


Warning Signs/Symptoms to Monitor

Notify your physician if you develop any of the following:
  • any changes in your incisions, such as redness, swelling, drainage, increased tenderness, or opening of your incisions
  • temperature higher than 100 degrees F
  • changes in the sensation, movement, or circulation in your arms or legs
  • changes in the location, type, or severity of pain
  • chest pain, pressure, or your previous heart pain
  • pain that is unrelieved
  • fast or irregular heart rate