Resources

These videos were curated to guide patients, caregivers, and anyone interested in learning about heart transplantation. From the initial consideration of a transplant to post-operative care, each video in this series provides valuable insights and information to help you prepare for your heart transplant. Remember, we're here to support you every step of the way.

Your Heart Transplant Journey: Process Overview

For those embarking on the transplant journey, we offer a walkthrough of the heart transplant evaluation process. Our aim is to prepare you for what lies ahead, ensuring both your safety and the success of the transplantation. By understanding each step of the process, you can approach your journey with confidence and clarity. 

Heart Transplant Evaluation Process

Learn what to expect and how we determine whether transplantation is the right option for you. The transplant evaluation process at UC Health includes an initial team consultation and extensive medical tests including blood work  and additional specialized screenings. A selection committee reviews your suitability for transplantation, discusses potential contraindications, and emphasizes the importance of donor-recipient compatibility and ongoing communication with our team. 

Navigating the Heart Transplant Waitlist

Your UC Health care team will provide clarity on the waitlist phase, ensuring you are informed and prepared for the next steps. If you are selected for heart transplantation, you’ll be added to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) waitlist. UNOS is an organization that coordinates heart transplantation in America, including matching and placement for donors.

Pre-Heart Transplant Clinic Visit and Social Worker Support

Learn what to expect during a pre-transplant clinic visit, essential for anyone preparing for a heart transplant. We detail the role of the heart transplant team, the psychosocial assessment, and discussions about medical conditions, treatment adherence, and support systems. We also cover crucial post-transplant requirements to help ensure your safety and well-being, including 24/7 supervision and transportation for follow-up appointments, emphasizing the importance of connections with support organizations like the American Heart Association. 

Heart Transplant Surgery and Post-Operative Care

Our comprehensive guide details your heart transplant surgery, including duration, surgical approach and post-transplant care. We also highlight the expected hospital stay and emphasize the vital role of your dedicated nurse coordinator in recovery and medication management.

Post-Heart Transplantation Plan of Care

From detailed care instructions to emotional support, learn what to expect during your post-transplant clinic visits, including the clinic visit schedule, the critical role of caregivers in the early weeks, medication management, monitoring for organ rejection, and laboratory tests. Your heart transplant care team empowers you to take an active role in your post-transplant care, promoting a successful recovery. 

Medication Management After Your Heart Transplant

Proper management of your medications post-transplantation is an important part of your transplant success. Your care team will prescribe medications, including immunosuppressants (anti-rejection medications), following your transplant surgery and provide instructions to you before you leave the hospital.