Before leaving the hospital, the transplant team will teach you:
• How to care for your loved one at home
• What to do if there is an emergency
• Who to contact with questions
Once you get home from the hospital, one of your most important tasks is to watch for new symptoms or problems and report them to the doctor right away. That’s because waiting to report symptoms could cause serious complications.
“I had to be a strong advocate for my husband’s health and care. When my transplant team said I could contact them, I would take them up on it, even emailing in the middle of the night if I had a concern.”
- Allison, caregiver
You may also need to:
• Help your loved one take the right medicines at the right times
• Change dressings on the central line, if it’s still in place
• Take your loved one to appointments at the hospital or clinic— sometimes on short notice
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Protect your loved one from infections by cleaning your home and caring for children and pets
• Cook food safely and help follow any rules about what is safe to eat
"As you go into this and you know you’re going to be the primary caregiver, you probably need to get a caregiver, too.”
- Steve, caregiver
Support for you
We offer you personalized, confidential one-on-one support to help you manage emotional and physical stress. Email patientinfo@nmdp.org or call 1 (888) 999-6743.
Talk to other caregivers
You may find it helpful talk with another caregiver who has been through transplant. Our Be The Match Peer Connect program can connect you with a trained volunteer who’s been there. No matter where you’re at in the process, caregivers like you are available to talk by phone or email, sharing their experience and tips. Request a connection.