The Transplant Unit

Chef James Staros celebrates 3 years since his last insulin injection and dialysis treatment by "catering" to the Transplant staff.

The Transplant Unit is located on 9 North Atrium Building. You will be hospitalized for approximately one week, depending on how well your new organs are functioning. In the hospital, we will continue to monitor the function of your new pancreas and kidney. Some patients will need one or more dialysis treatments before their new kidneys begin functioning.

At this point in your recovery, we will begin the process of immunosuppression, administering medications that reduce the body's ability to reject the new organs. On the unit, you will receive more information about your transplant, and the need for immunosuppression.

Routine care on 9 North is focused on monitoring patients' organ function and general health status. This includes:

Taking daily weights

Monitoring vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, pulse and respiration)

Performing daily blood tests

Monitoring fluid intake and urine output

Administrating medications, orally or through an intravenous (IV) tube

Another major part of your care on 9 North will involve education regarding your medications and discharge responsibilities. You will be placed on a self-medication program as soon as your condition allows it. The clinical nurse coordinators and staff nurses will teach you how to take your own temperature, blood pressure and pulse rate. You will be given a detailed patient education manual describing what you need to know about your care after you leave the hospital. When you are able to eat and care for yourself, and your organs are functioning adequately, you will be able to return to your home and family.