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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
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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 Support Educate Motivate Communicate • 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 Support Educate Motivate Communicate • 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 213.413.2779 ext 170 nicole.pinkerton@transplantation.com