Being prepared for emergencies and organ offers
Signs of rejection include: fever, fatigue, jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), dark urine, light stools, abdominal pain or tenderness, and unexplained nausea. However, rejection often has no symptoms, which is why regular monitoring is essential.
Keep accessible: transplant center phone number, list of medications with doses, insurance information, medical history summary, emergency contacts, and a list of doctors. This helps in emergencies when you may be stressed.
Yes! A medical ID bracelet or necklace stating you're a transplant patient, listing medications (especially immunosuppressants), and including emergency contacts is essential. This helps first responders provide appropriate care.
Know where hospitals are when you travel, and carry your transplant center's phone number and medication list so any hospital can reach your team.
When an organ becomes available, the transplant coordinator will call you. You'll need to arrive at the hospital quickly (usually within hours). Bring your medication list, insurance information, and a caregiver. Follow any instructions exactly.
Keep your phone on and with you at all times. Return calls immediately - even if you miss the call and it's not your offer, they may leave information. If you're unreachable for multiple offers, your status may be changed to inactive.
Yes, you can decline any offer. Reasons might include: recent illness, travel constraints, or personal reasons. However, declining too often may affect your status. Discuss concerns with your coordinator - they can help you understand when to accept or decline.