Division of Transplantation - The Transplant Team

The transplant team at University Hospital is made up of highly skilled Transplant Surgeons, Nurses, Transplant Coordinators, Nephrologists (kidney specialists), Social Workers and Dietitians. Transplant coordinators are registered nurses who specialize in transplantation. They work closely with the surgeons and other members of the transplant team and are an important part of your transplant out patient care. Together with you, the transplant team will provide the best possible care both before and after your transplant.

The Transplant Unit Nursing Staff

The Transplant Unit Nursing Staff specialize in the care of transplant recipients. These highly trained nurses ensure that transplant recipients receive the highest standard of care. They are expert in teaching recipients about the anti-rejection medications which must be taken to prevent rejection of the transplant. They also ensure that recipients know how to monitor for signs of rejection and how to proceed should problems arise.

The Transplant Coordinators

The Transplant Coordinators are highly trained Registered Nurses specializing in the care of Transplant recipients. They work closely with the surgeons and other members of the transplant team and are an important part of your transplant out patient care. Together with you, the transplant team will provide the best possible care both before and after your transplant.

The Diabetic Nurse Specialist

The Diabetic Nurse Specialist is an expert in the care of diabetes. She is available to teach new diabetics how to monitor their own blood sugar in addition to teaching them how to take the medications necessary to control their diabetes. She also teaches both new and established diabetics how to manage a diabetic diet and how to practice the best diabetic foot care. Patient education is a highly valued resource in the UHB Transplant Program and diabetes education is highly emphasized.

The Histocompatibility "Tissue Typing" Staff

The Histocompatibility or "Tissue Typing" Staff identify the genetic markers which are critical to the field of transplantation. These genetic markers allow for the "matching" of transplant donors and recipients. In addition to identification of these genetic markers, they "mix" the donor and recipient cells to determine the likelihood of transplant rejection. Using this technique, the likelihood of rejection can be more easily determined in the pre transplant period.

The Transplant Social Worker

The Transplant Social Worker is an integral part ot the Transplant Team. She is available to assist with any social service needs and offers expertise in her field. In addition to her work with adult kidney transplant recipients, she conducts a monthly support group for pediatric transplant recipients and candidates. The group's focus is on coping with the many issues related to end stage kidney failure and transplantation with an emphasis on the special needs of young people.

The UHB Laboratory Staff

The UHB Laboratory staff is available for drawing blood in both the in-patient and out-patient areas. Their expert skills allow them to draw and process blood and other specimens quickly and efficiently. Their professional manner allows clinic visits and in-patient stays to flow as smoothly as possible.

The Transplant Clerical Staff

The Transplant Clerical Staff is dedicated to making communication with the Transplant Program a positive experience. Every telephone call and every visit to the Transplant Clinic is important to us and we strive to maintain courtesy and efficiency.