Educating & Preparing Dialysis Patients for

TransplantationNicole 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

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

Dialysis Patients benefit from:

Education about treatment options

Getting Support

Communicating with healthcare professionals and peers

Being Motivated to care for self

Sincere Thanks!Sincere Thanks!

For more information about transplantation, contact:

Nicole Pinkerton, MA, MFTMendez National Institute of

Transplantation213.413.2779 ext 170nicole.pinkerton@transplantation.

com