Pancreas Transplant Medications and Immunosuppression

Once admitted to the Transplant Unit, patients are placed on clinical pathways that describe what tests, procedures and care should be done each day. These pathways are designed to keep transplant patients on schedule toward discharge. Although each patient is assessed on an individual basis, clinical pathways serve as an over plan of care that helps patients go home sooner.

Twice a day, transplant surgeons, residents, nurse practitioners, the nutritionist, the pharmacist, and other members of the transplant team make rounds in the transplant unit. This is generally done in the morning and the afternoon, allowing the transplant team to assess any changes in patient care and catch potential issues early.

Twice a week nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers, the nutritionist, the pharmacist, case managers and members of the pastoral care department have interdisciplinary rounds. The goal of rounds is to ensure that all aspects of our patients’ needs are being addressed.

Discharge planning, including the need for home services, is also addressed at this time to help ensure that patients are discharged safely.

The transplant surgery department has two full-time designated social workers who follow patients both in the inpatient and outpatient settings. This comprehensive approach allows for patients to have continuity in their care to help them through the transplant experience.

The social workers are integral members of the transplant team, offering support to patients and their loved ones. The social workers offer a variety of psycho-social education to patients both pre and postoperative, including monthly educational classes and support group meetings.